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relating

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ɹiˈɫeɪtɪŋ// UK //ɹɪlˈeɪtɪŋ// re·lat·ing

v. to understand how someone feels or why they do something because you have had a similar experience. It can also mean showing how two things are connected.

v. to feel or show a connection between different things; to identify with or understand another person's situation through personal experience. Often used in the continuous form when describing empathy.


SIMPLE

I can really relate to how you feel about your job.

CONTEXTUAL

Many readers find themselves relating to the main character's struggle to balance work and family life.

COMPLEX

The study succeeds in relating historical economic shifts to the modern housing crisis, providing a clear framework for understanding current market volatility.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

When meaning to empathize, the verb is intransitive and requires the preposition 'to'. When meaning to connect ideas, it is transitive and often takes 'to' or 'with'.

Pitfall

I can relate with your problemI can relate to your problemWhen expressing empathy or understanding, the verb must be followed by the preposition 'to', not 'with'.

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