What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
kinship
Example
The tribe's kinship ties were strong and helped them survive in harsh conditions. [kinship: noun]
Example
She felt a deep kinship with her grandmother, who had passed down many family traditions. [kinship: adjective]
relationship
Example
Their relationship was strained after the argument they had last week. [relationship: noun]
Example
He has a good relationship with his boss, which makes work more enjoyable. [relationship: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Relationship is more commonly used than kinship in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage. Kinship is more likely to be used in academic or anthropological contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between kinship and relationship?
Both kinship and relationship can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but kinship may have a more traditional or cultural connotation that makes it more appropriate for formal or academic writing.
