lien affectif

/ljɛ̃ a.fɛk.tif/
emotional bond

Un lien affectif fort unit les membres de cette famille.

A strong emotional bond unites the members of this family.


neutral

A connection or relationship characterized by deep emotional attachment or affection.

Les enfants développent un lien affectif avec leurs parents.

Children develop an emotional bond with their parents.

Le lien affectif entre les deux amis était évident.

The emotional bond between the two friends was evident.

Often used in psychology, sociology, and everyday contexts to describe relationships with emotional significance.

Related Phrases

attachement affectifphrase
emotional attachment
relation affectivephrase
affective relationship

Pro Tip

Context Matters

In psychology, 'lien affectif' often refers to the quality of attachment (e.g., secure vs. insecure). In everyday language, it can simply mean a close relationship.

Gold Rule

Avoid Literal Translation

Do not translate 'lien affectif' as 'affective link'—'emotional bond' is the natural English equivalent.

Word Origin

The phrase combines 'lien' (from Latin 'linquere', meaning 'to bind') and 'affectif' (from Latin 'affectus', meaning 'emotion' or 'feeling'). The concept reflects the idea of a bond tied by emotion.

Usage Notes

Common in both formal and informal contexts. In psychology, it may refer to attachment theory (e.g., 'lien affectif sécurisant'). Avoid confusing with 'lien social' (social bond) or 'lien professionnel' (professional relationship).

Word Breakdown

lien
bond, connection
noun
+
affectif
emotional, affective
adjective
Dictionnaire Français-Anglais