close relation; close association
Refers to a close relationship or connection, often used in formal or academic contexts such as biology (close kinship) or social ties.
DNA analysis showed that these two species are closely related.
The two companies have a close relationship.
related genera; associated species
related species; allied species
Compound of 近 (close) and 縁 (relation, connection). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the kanji composition directly reflects the meaning.