English Reference

Word

ties

US/ˈtaɪz/

UK/tˈaɪz/

Definitions

01social or emotional connections

B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun

n. the connections or relationships between people, groups, or countries.

n. social, emotional, or political connections that bind individuals or groups together.

“The two countries have strong economic ties that go back many years.”

“Despite living abroad for decades, he maintained close emotional ties to his hometown through regular correspondence and annual visits.”

02clothing

A2 · Elementary Plural noun

n. long pieces of cloth worn around the neck under a collar.

n. plural form of the necktie; a decorative band of fabric worn around the neck and tied in front.

“He had to wear a suit and one of his silk ties for the wedding.”

“The dress code required all male employees to wear formal shirts and ties during client-facing hours.”

Synonyms

03equal scores

B1 · Intermediate Plural noun Sports

n. situations in a game where two teams have the same score.

n. instances in a competition where two or more participants achieve the same score or position.

“There were three ties in the first round of the tournament.”

“The sudden-death round was implemented specifically to resolve ties and ensure a clear winner emerged before the final.”

Synonyms

Real-World Examples

“During emergencies, social ties can also save lives.”
The Conversation 5 Aug 2026
“The war also offered a chance for two Asian nations with ties to the West, Japan and India, to step up.”
Ars Technica 17 Aug 2026

This entry

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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Common
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

englishreference.com/q/ties

English Reference