Words / B1

BOND/bɒnd/

A bond is a close connection between people or groups: a bond between friends; family bonds; form a bond. Tie and link are close; relationship is wider and can be formal or romantic. Bond as a financial noun (a government bond) is a later use. Bonding is the process of becoming closer. Do not use bond for a casual acquaintance — it suggests a strong emotional link.

Meaning

A close connection between people or groups (a bond between).

Examples

• “There is a strong bond between the two sisters.”
• “Shared training helped form a bond between the new recruits.”
• “Family bonds were tested when they moved abroad.”

Good to know

a bond between. form / strengthen a bond. Wider: relationship. Finance (later): a government bond.

Near in meaning

tie, link

New