WordGarden.ioaffair
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /əfˈeə/
US
- /əˈfɛr/
Meanings
Noun
a matter, event, or situation being dealt with
a romantic or sexual relationship, especially a secret one
public, political, or organizational matters and responsibilities
More meaningsFewer meanings
a social event or occasion, often a formal one
Beyond the definition
The word "affair" can be surprisingly tricky! It doesn't always mean a romantic relationship outside of marriage (though it often does!). An "affair" can simply refer to an event, situation, or matter that concerns someone. Think of it as something happening in one's life—a business affair, a family affair, or even a historical event like the Dreyfus Affair.
However, "affair" is commonly used to describe a secret romantic relationship, usually one that is illicit. If you hear about "an affair," the context will likely tell you whether it's a scandalous romance or just a situation that needs handling. For example: "The whole affair was handled with discretion" (meaning the event/situation) versus "She discovered his affair" (meaning the romantic relationship).
"Affair" is a word with multiple layers, stemming from French roots that literally mean "to do." At its core, an affair refers to any event, circumstance, matter, or subject that occupies someone's attention. You might hear about "state affairs" referring to government business, or a "family affair" describing a private gathering. It can even describe a historical incident: the Iran–Contra affair was a major political scandal.
However, "affair" is most famously (and often dramatically) used to denote a secret romantic relationship, typically one that violates a promise of commitment (for example, an extramarital relationship). This usage carries connotations of secrecy, betrayal, and emotional complexity. "Their affair lasted for years before it was discovered."
The context is crucial when interpreting "affair." A sentence like "It's not your affair!" means "It's none of your business," while "He had an affair with his colleague" clearly indicates a romantic entanglement.
There is also a descriptive usage common in literature where "affair" refers to a vague object or event, usually modified by an adjective. For example, one might describe a strange, clunky machine as "a noisy, rusting affair," or a party as "a very dull affair."
So, whether it's a matter of state, a family gathering, a scandalous romance, or simply an object that is hard to describe—the word "affair" speaks to involvement and consequence.
Examples
- 1
Family event
The wedding was a small family affair with only ten guests.
- 2
Private matter
I'd rather not discuss their argument; it's a private affair.
- 3
Unpleasant event
The whole affair left everyone embarrassed.
- Phrasethe whole affair
the whole event or situation, often an unpleasant one
- 4
Personal finances
She asked an accountant to sort out her financial affairs.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Government work
She studied international law and now works in foreign affairs.
- 6
Secret relationship
Rumors spread that he was having an affair with a colleague.
- Patternhave an affair with + person
have a secret romantic relationship with them
- 7
Lasting enthusiasm
That first trip to Rome began a lifelong love affair with Italy.
- Patterna love affair with + place/topic
a very strong and lasting enthusiasm for it
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- nonissue
- irrelevance
Used with (collocations)
- private affair
- public affairs
- state affairs
- get one's affairs in order
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- affairnoun
Forms
- affairspluralnoun