English Reference
verb · noun

relating

v. · n.
US /ɹiˈɫeɪtɪŋ/ UK /ɹɪlˈeɪtɪŋ/ re·lat·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.showing how two or more things are connected or similar.

    v.establishing or demonstrating a logical or causal connection between two or more entities.

    Simple

    The teacher is relating the new lesson to what we learned last week.

    In context

    The researcher is currently relating the sudden increase in local temperatures to broader patterns of global climate change.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'to'.

    separatingdissociating
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    v.telling a story or describing a series of events.

    v.narrating or providing a formal account of events or experiences.

    Simple

    He spent the evening relating his adventures in the mountains to his friends.

    In context

    The witness began relating the sequence of events with remarkable clarity, despite the significant time that had passed since the incident.

    Usage

    Transitive verb often followed by a direct object (the story) and 'to' (the audience).

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.understanding how someone feels because you have felt the same way.

    v.feeling or showing sympathy or understanding for a person or their situation.

    Simple

    I have trouble relating to people who are always angry.

    In context

    Many young readers find themselves relating to the protagonist's struggle for independence and self-discovery.

    Usage

    Intransitive use requiring the preposition 'to'.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Academic

    n.the process of making a connection or telling a story.

    n.the action of establishing a relationship or the act of narration.

    Simple

    The relating of these two facts helped the police solve the crime.

    In context

    The constant relating of personal trauma can be an exhausting process for patients in long-term therapy.

Contact’s helpline inquiries relating to complaints about social care have increased in recent years.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

Rhondda Cynon Taf council said it received a noise complaint in June relating to music being played after 20:00 BST, which it investigated and found to be valid.

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated