Translation guide
The English word "association" covers several distinct concepts: a mental connection, a formal organization, the act of associating with people, and more. Japanese uses different words for each meaning.
Expressing a connection in your mind between two things, like word associations or symbolic links.
word association · I associate summer with the beach. · What do you associate with Japan?
The most common word for a mental association or connection of ideas. Often used in phrases like 'word association' or 'that reminds me of...'.
「夏」と聞くと「海」を連想する。
When I hear 'summer,' I associate it with the ocean.
その曲を聴くと高校時代を連想する。
That song makes me think of my high school days.
Often used for the image or impression associated with something. More about the mental picture than a direct link.
この色は清潔感のイメージがある。
This color is associated with cleanliness.
A connection or link, often more abstract or logical. Can be used for associations between concepts.
言葉と意味の結びつき
the association between words and meanings
Referring to a formal group of people organized for a purpose, like a trade association or alumni association.
trade association · homeowners' association · professional association
Used for official organizations, especially trade associations, professional bodies, or promotional groups.
日本自動車工業協会
Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association
彼はテニス協会の会長だ。
He is the president of the tennis association.
Often used for labor unions, cooperatives, or trade guilds. Implies a collective of workers or small businesses.
A general suffix for a group or society, often used in names of clubs, alumni associations, etc.
同窓会
alumni association
A general term for an organization or body. Can be used for associations but is broader (includes corporations, NPOs, etc.).
Used for leagues or federations, especially in sports or political alliances.
Describing the act of spending time with someone, often with a nuance of friendship or partnership.
a close association · in association with · I don't want any association with him.
Refers to socializing, keeping company, or maintaining a relationship. Can be used for personal or business relationships.
彼とは長い付き合いだ。
I have a long association with him. (We've known each other a long time.)
仕事上の付き合いで飲みに行く。
I go out drinking as part of business socializing.
More formal term for association or social intercourse. Often used in official contexts or for romantic relationships.
Involvement or connection with someone or something. Can be neutral or negative (e.g., getting involved in trouble).
Cooperation or collaboration, often used in business or organizational contexts.
In academic or technical contexts, referring to a relationship between two factors.
a strong association between diet and health · no association was found
General word for relation or connection. Commonly used in research to describe associations between variables.
喫煙と肺がんの関連を調べる。
to investigate the association between smoking and lung cancer
Specifically means correlation (statistical). Used in scientific contexts.
General word for relationship. Can be used for associations but is broader.
連想 is a direct mental link (A makes you think of B). イメージ is the overall impression or image you have of something. Use 連想 for word associations or triggered memories; use イメージ for brand image or general impressions.
「白」から「純潔」を連想する。
I associate 'white' with 'purity' (direct link).
この会社のイメージは明るい。
This company's image is bright (overall impression).
English 'association' is often used in phrases like 'in association with' (meaning cooperation). In Japanese, you need to choose the right word based on context: 協力 (cooperation), 提携 (partnership), or 共催 (co-sponsorship) might be better than a direct translation.
労働組合
labor union
農業協同組合
agricultural cooperative association
保護者会
parents' association
非営利団体
non-profit organization
国際サッカー連盟
International Football Association (FIFA)
交際を申し込む
to ask someone out (to start a romantic relationship)
国際交際
international relations / social intercourse between nations
彼とは一切関わりたくない。
I don't want any association with him at all.
両社の連携が成功の鍵だ。
The association (cooperation) between the two companies is key to success.
正の相関が見られる。
A positive association (correlation) is observed.
両者の間に関係はない。
There is no association between the two.