contact; intermediary; go-between
Refers to a person who helps make introductions or connections, or the connection itself. Often used in business or job-hunting contexts.
Refers to the network or influence one has, especially in professional or social settings. Implies having useful people who can help.
I relied on a friend's connections to find a job.
Through his connection, I was able to get a job at that company.
Do you have any good contacts?
He has strong connections in the political world.
I relied on my connections and somehow got the tickets.
Do you have any connections at that company?
My study-abroad placement was arranged through my teacher's connections.
I'm looking for a contact who can give me information.
人脈 describes one's whole network of personal connections, whereas つて usually points to a specific contact or channel used for a particular purpose.
縁故 is a formal, often bureaucratic term for personal or family ties used to gain advantage, while つて is more general and everyday.
Usually written in kana; the kanji form 伝 is also used but less common.
Kanji form; can be confused with other readings such as でん.
Katakana spelling; sometimes used for emphasis or in informal writing.
Rare kanji spelling; the 手 is often omitted.
Derived from the classical Japanese verb 伝つ (つつ), meaning 'to transmit' or 'to pass along'. The noun form came to mean a person or means through which something is conveyed.