associate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /əˈsoʊʃiˌeɪt/
KK: /əˈsoʊʃiˌeɪt/
adjective
Definition
Connected or linked with someone or something, often in a supportive or secondary role.
Example
She is an associate member of the organization, which allows her to participate in some activities.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more associate
Superlative: most associate
Conversation
I'm thinking about joining that book club; they have an associate membership.
That sounds interesting! What's the difference between that and a full membership?
The associate members can still attend meetings but can't vote on book selections.
Got it! That might be a good way to start meeting new people.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
auxiliary
collateral
secondary
Antonyms
primary
main
chief
intransitive verb
Definition
To spend time with someone in a social way or to be connected with a group or organization.
Example
She likes to associate with her friends during the weekends.
Tense Forms
Past: associated
Past Participle: associated
Conversation
Do you want to associate with our new friends this weekend?
Sure! They seem really fun and interesting.
I think it'll be great to associate with people outside of work.
noun
Definition
A person who is connected to another person or group, often in a work or business context, and may share some responsibilities or privileges.
Example
She is an associate at the law firm, working closely with senior attorneys.
Conversation
I met one of your associates at the conference yesterday.
Oh really? What did you think of them?
They seemed really knowledgeable and friendly.
transitive verb
Definition
To connect or link something in your mind with something else, often by sharing a common idea or experience.
Example
Many people associate the smell of cookies with happy childhood memories.
Tense Forms
Past: associated
Past Participle: associated
Conversation
Do you ever associate certain songs with special memories?
Absolutely! I think music has a powerful way of connecting us to moments.
Yeah, I always associate that one song with our summer road trip.
Root Explanation
Associate → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "socius" (meaning companion or ally). The word "associate" means to connect or join with others, as in forming a companionship or alliance.
Memory Tip
Think of 'joining with others' — 'ad-' means to, and 'socius' means companion. This helps you remember that to associate means to connect with companions.
Visually Confused Words
reassociate
unassociated
misassociate
disassociate
dissociate
fasciate
unassociative
assate