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Meaning & use

connected

adjective·Everyday

Last updated

UK/kəˈnektɪd/
US/kəˈnektɪd/

Meanings

  1. adjectivenot comparable

    Joined or linked to something else, either physically or by a system such as the internet or phone network.

    Grammar: Often followed by 'to' or 'with': connected to the internet.

    Patterns

    • connected to something
    • connected with something
    • stay connected

    Make sure your laptop is connected to the printer.

    The two cities are connected by a high-speed rail line.

    We stayed connected through a group chat while traveling.

  2. adjectivenot comparable

    Having a logical or causal relationship; related in some way.

    Grammar: Often used in phrases like 'connected with' or 'connected to' to show a link.

    Patterns

    • connected with something
    • connected to something
    • closely connected

    The two problems are closely connected.

    Her research is connected with climate change.

    There is no evidence that the two events are connected.

  3. adjectivecomparable

    Having useful social or professional contacts, especially people who can help you.

    Grammar: Often used in the phrase 'well connected'.

    Patterns

    • well connected
    • politically connected

    He is well connected in the music industry.

    She comes from a politically connected family.

    A well-connected friend helped him get the job.

Common combinations

connected to
The device is connected to the main computer.
connected with
The disease is connected with poor diet.
well connected
She is well connected in local politics.
stay connected
Social media helps people stay connected.
connected world
We live in an increasingly connected world.

Synonyms and how they differ

linked
Linked often suggests a direct, often physical or logical connection, similar to connected, but is less common for people's social networks.
related
Related is used for family or logical connections; it does not usually mean physically joined or online.
attached
Attached means fastened or joined to something, often physically; it does not imply a network or logical link.

Opposites

disconnectedunconnected

Word family

connect verb
To join or link things together.
connection noun
A link or relationship between things or people.
connective adjective
Relating to or serving as a connection.

Commonly confused: connected or connective?

connected vs connective

Connective is an adjective meaning 'serving to connect', as in 'connective tissue', while connected means 'joined or linked'.

Practice

Choose the correct preposition: The computer is not connected ___ the internet.

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “connected”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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