He is a known 'associate' of criminals. [=he is known to associate with criminals; people know that he works with or spends time with criminals]
She was promoted from assistant editor to 'associate' editor and may soon be promoted to senior editor.
He was 'associated' [='connected, identified'] 'with' a group of radicals in the government.
(..) Can we please skip the recruiting? I work better alone, anyway. Well, I would, Harvey, except all senior partners get an associate. It's just a rule. I'm sorry. What? Jessica, I deserve that promotion. My billables destroy his. (..)2011 TvShow: Suits Title: Pilot Season: 1 Episode 1
(..) Harvey, your interviews are set up for tomorrow. What? Why don't we just hire the Harvard summer associate douche? I think if you listen to the phrasing of that question, you'll come up with an answer. (..)2011 TvShow: Suits Title: Pilot Season: 1 Episode 1