What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
affiliation
Example
She has an affiliation with the local university as a visiting professor. [affiliation: noun]
Example
I feel a strong affiliation with my cultural heritage. [affiliation: noun]
Example
The affiliation between the two companies led to a successful partnership. [affiliation: noun]
association
Example
I joined the local photography association to meet other enthusiasts. [association: noun]
Example
He is a member of the American Medical Association. [association: noun]
Example
There is a strong association between smoking and lung cancer. [association: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Association is more commonly used than affiliation in everyday language. Association is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while affiliation is less common and often used in specific formal or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between affiliation and association?
Affiliation is generally associated with a more formal tone, while association can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
