What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
institution
Example
The institution of marriage has been around for centuries. [institution: noun]
Example
The university is a respected institution in the community. [institution: noun]
association
Example
I joined the local association of artists to meet other creative people. [association: noun]
Example
The study found a strong association between exercise and mental health. [association: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Institution is more commonly used than association in formal contexts, such as academic or legal writing. However, association is more commonly used in everyday language and informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between institution and association?
Institution is generally considered more formal than association, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
