affairs

Affairs is the plural form of affair and is used in English to refer to matters, events, or activities that are of interest or concern to someone or some group. The core sense is something to be attended to, whether in private life, governance, or business. The term derives from the Old French affaire, meaning business or undertaking, and has been part of English since the Middle Ages.

In public or organizational contexts, affairs commonly denote areas of responsibility or interest, such as state or government affairs, domestic affairs, or international affairs. Journalists and scholars speak of current affairs to describe events of public interest occurring in the present time. The phrase “affairs of state” covers diplomacy, defense, economics, and policy.

In private life, an affair can refer to a romantic relationship outside one’s committed partnership. In this sense, an affair may be described as infidelity or an extramarital relationship. The use of the word often carries social and ethical implications, and perceptions vary by culture and situation. In some contexts, “affairs” may be used more neutrally to indicate personal matters that require attention, such as household affairs or family affairs.

Overall, the meaning of affairs depends on context, ranging from impersonal matters of business and governance to intimate personal relationships. The word emphasizes that something warrants consideration, organization, or action.