If you need to know whether to use 'associated to' or 'associated with,' you are in luck.
Here is the short answer in case you are in a rush:
- 'Associated to' is only acceptable in rare contexts, specifically when discussing IT topics.
- 'Associated with' is the correct phrase to use when you are discussing most non-IT topics.
There is much more to learn about using these two terms. So, keep reading!
What is the Difference Between 'Associated To' or 'Associated With'
'Associated with' means that something is connected with something else. It is used to show connections between people, places, feelings, objects, etc.
In most cases, between 'associated to' or 'associated with,' the latter is grammatically correct. However, if you are writing about IT and technical topics where one item relates to another that is in a higher hierarchical position, you use 'associated to.'
Definition of 'Associated To': What Does 'Associated To' Mean?
To gain a deeper understanding of the meaning of 'associated to' we are going to look at the definitions that make up the term.
Definition of 'Associated'
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines 'associated' as an adjective that means:
- Joined together or partnering in a working or professional relationship
- Combined, connected, or related together
Synonyms of 'Associated'
- Related
- Affiliated
- Connected
- Interrelated
- Allied
- Corresponding
- Such
- Matching
- Analogous
- Kindred
- Parallel
- Resembling
- Identical
- Relevant
- Pertinent
- Cognate
- Alike
- Connate
- Resemblant
- Cogent
- Ditto
- Apropos
Definition of 'To'
'To' is a preposition defined as:
- A function word used to indicate action or movement toward a person, place, or thing
- A function word that indicates a direction
- Used as a function word to indicate proximity or contact
- A function word to indicate the point that is the farthest limit
- A function word used to show the purpose, intention, end, or result
- Used as a function word to indicate the result of an action or process
- A function word used to indicate attachment, addition, connection, belonging, accompaniment, or possession
- A function word used to show the extent or degree of something
- Used as a function word to indicate a proportion in terms of quantities or numbers
Synonyms of 'To'
- Before
- Previous to
- To
- Ere
- Till
- Prior to
- Until
- In advance of
- Afore
- Fore
- Ahead of
- Up to
Definition of 'Associated With': What Does 'Associated With' Mean?
We already looked at the definition of associated, so now let's look at the definition of with.
Definition of 'With'
The same source lists 'with' as a preposition defined as:
- Against or in opposition to
- To be detached or separated from
- A function word used to show a participant in a transaction, action, or arrangement
- A function word used to indicate the object of a feeling, action, or transaction
- As far as concerns or in respect to
- A word used to indicate the object of imperative force or an adverbial expression
- On or over
- In the operation, performance, or use of
- A function word used to indicate the object of equality or a statement of comparison
- A function word used to express sympathy or agreement
- For or on the side of
- As well as
- A function word used to indicate accompaniment, presence, combination, or association
- Inclusive of
- In the estimation or judgment of
- A function word used to indicate cause, means, agent, or instrumentality
- A function word used to indicate the manner of action
- Having or in possession of
- A function word used
Synonyms of 'With'
- Through
- Because of
- On account of
- Through
- Due to
- By
- In
- Per
- Via
- By means of
- By virtue of
- Despite
- Notwithstanding
- In despite of
- In defiance of
- In spite of
Pronunciation: How to Pronounce 'Associated To' or 'Associated With'
You do not have to be a speech writer to benefit from learning how to pronounce terms like these. Learning correct pronunciation correctly helps you improve your verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
So, here is a pronunciation guide you can reference.
- Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'associated to':
ah-shō-shē-ā-ted tü
- Use this phonetic spelling to pronounce 'associated with':
ah-shō-shē-ā-ted with
Writing Tips: When and How to Use 'Associated To' or 'Associated With'
When it comes to terms like 'associated to' or 'associated with', it can be challenging to know exactly when and how to use each. So, here are some tips:
- Use 'associated to' when you are discussing something connected to something that is in a higher hierarchical position.
For example, you could say:
After you create the parent account, enter each contact associated to it.
- Use 'associated with' when you are talking about something that is connected to something else.
So, I might say:
The behavior of your infant is associated with what they need or the way they feel.
As an example, you could say:
My doctor is associated with a prestigious medical group.
Sample Sentences Using 'Associated To' and 'Associated With'
Read through these sample sentences using 'associate to' and 'associated with' to ensure you know and remember how to use each term.
Associated To
- Each of the actions under the 21st column is associated to a previous action.
- If the process is associated to another, please list it here.
- When you are troubleshooting, it is important to look at the components associated to the error.
Associated With
- Good morning. Please open your books to page ninety-nine. Today, we will be looking at diseases associated with aging.
- If you are associated with any other students who attend high school here, please list them on your enrollment form.
- The disease is associated with a variety of other ailments.
Final Look at the Difference Between 'Associated To' or 'Associated With'
Finally, here is a recap of what you learned about the difference between 'associated to' or associated with':
- 'Associated to' is rarely used outside of discussing IT and technical topics where the subject connects to something in a higher hierarchical position.
- 'Associated with' is the grammatically correct or preferable term to use in most contexts.
If you ever need a reminder of which term to use, you can always return to this page for a quick review of this lesson.
You can also learn about other terms like these here. So, if you have been wondering about the meanings or grammatical usages of other terms, read about them here before you go.
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