relation étroite
The English phrase "close relationship" is expressed in French as relation étroite.
relation étroite describes a strong emotional bond between two people who know and trust each other well. If you wish to specifically refer to an "intimate bond," you may use lien intime.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of relation (relationship) and étroite (narrow or tight), which is the standard way to express the concept of "close" in this specific context.
Which one should you use?
While the word proche can be used to mean "close" (for example, un ami proche for "a close friend"), the phrase relation étroite specifically emphasizes the depth or intensity of the connection.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because relation is a feminine noun, the adjective étroite must use the feminine form ending in -e, as seen in une relation étroite.
Did you know?
- If a French speaker describes a relationship as fusionnelle, they are describing a bond even closer than étroite, where two people act as a single unit.
- The word relation descends from the Latin relātiōnem, which originally referred to the act of reporting or recounting a story.
- While étroite means 'close' in relation étroite, it is also the standard word for 'narrow' when describing a street or a hallway.
Examples in context
- Dans le milieu des affaires, il est important de cultiver des relations étroites avec nos partenaires.In the business world, it is important to cultivate close relationships with our partners.
- Le rapport de proximité entre le professeur et l'élève favorise un meilleur apprentissage.The close relationship between the teacher and the student promotes better learning.
- Jeanne est très proche de sa meilleure amie, elles se disent tout.Jeanne is very close to her best friend, they tell each other everything.
- Ils entretiennent une relation étroite.They maintain a close relationship.
- Ils ont une relation étroite.They have a close relationship.
- Elle entretient une relation étroite avec sa sœur.She maintains a close relationship with her sister.
- Une relation étroite est nécessaire pour ce travail.A close relationship is necessary for this work.
Example conversation
Lucas and Chloé are talking about their families.
- LucasEst-ce que tu t'entends bien avec ta sœur ?Do you get along well with your sister?
- ChloéOui, nous avons une relation étroite.Yes, we have a close relationship.
- LucasC'est super d'avoir ce lien avec elle.It's great to have that bond with her.
- ChloéOui, je peux tout lui dire, Lucas.Yes, I can tell her everything, Lucas.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries relation, CC BY-SA 4.0.
