What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ally
Example
The two countries formed an alliance to fight against terrorism. [ally: noun]
Example
She is my closest ally and always supports me in difficult times. [ally: noun]
Example
The army allied with the rebels to overthrow the dictator. [allied: verb]
associate
Example
He is an associate at the law firm and works closely with the senior partners. [associate: noun]
Example
We are associated with several companies in the tech industry. [associated: verb]
Example
She was promoted from associate professor to full professor. [associate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Associate is more commonly used than ally in everyday language. Associate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ally is less common and refers to a specific type of partnership or collaboration.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between ally and associate?
Both ally and associate can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, associate is more commonly used in business or academic settings, which may make it slightly more formal in those contexts.
