Word
akin
US/ˈeɪkɪn/
UK/ɐkˈɪn/
Definitions
01similar in quality
C1 · Advanced Formal
adj. similar to something else or having a similar feeling.
adj. essentially similar or related in character; sharing common properties or nature.
“The two languages are closely akin to each other in their grammar.”
“The senator's views on economic reform are closely akin to those of the previous administration, suggesting a continuity of policy.”
Usage
Usually follows the verb and is followed by the preposition 'to'.
Teaching tip
While dictionaries may list this as archaic, it remains common in formal writing and academic contexts to describe conceptual similarities.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02related by blood
C2 · Proficiency Literary · Archaic
adj. related to someone by family or blood.
adj. related by blood or belonging to the same family line.
“They were akin to the royal family through a distant cousin.”
“Genealogical research confirmed that the two families were akin, having descended from the same ancestor in the seventeenth century.”
Usage
Predicative use only; it does not usually sit before the noun.
Teaching tip
In modern English, 'related' is almost always preferred for family ties; 'akin' is reserved for a more poetic or old-fashioned tone.
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“I’ve argued that this is more akin to ghostwriting , since the student isn’t copying from an original source.” “The judge also declared Meta a "public nuisance" akin to a factory that was polluting the air people breathe, causing "harmful effects" that impacted an entire population.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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