relate

word

/ɹiˈɫeɪt/
ri-LAYT
/ɹɪlˈeɪt/
ri-LAYT

Definition

To show or find a connection between things, to tell a story, or to understand and feel a shared experience with someone else.

Usage & Nuances

'Relate' can mean making connections ('relate two ideas'), telling stories ('relate what happened'), or feeling empathy ('relate to someone'). With 'to' ('relate to'), it often means identifying or empathizing, common in casual speech. In academic or formal settings, it's used for logical connections.

Example Sentences

Can you relate these two problems?

basic

She likes to relate stories from her childhood.

basic

Many people can relate to feeling nervous before a test.

basic

I totally relate to what you're saying about work.

natural

He tried to relate the movie to real-life events.

natural

Not everyone can relate to growing up in a big city.

natural