Slightly distant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Slightly distant" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not very close, either physically or emotionally. Example: "The memories of that summer feel slightly distant now, as time has passed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Arts

Music

Literature

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

In its early life, the Tokyo was celebrated for a serene if slightly distant elegance.

The New York Times

Mr. Cárdenes added: "Maazel was more organized and slightly distant; he'd lead you.

The New York Times - Arts

Slight, and slightly distant, he tried to explain how his golden chances had disintegrated so quickly.

The Guardian - Sport

But there's something modest about Tank that can make his carefully studied songs feel slightly distant.

The New York Times - Arts

Ms. Settles has an easy smile and an undeniable, if slightly distant, warmth.

The New York Times - Arts

If Gra sounds informal and affectionate but also slightly distant and slightly grand, then you have her perfectly.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

One wishes that Mr. Felder had a slightly more distant perspective on his subject.

The New York Times

Ask Jeeves, for one, has become a slightly less distant third after improving its technology.

The Economist

But the source is Annibale Carracci, a slightly more distant allusion that shows how Mr. Currin keeps you guessing.

The New York Times - Arts

Obama's successor might learn from this when — if — he produces an alternative plan for a slightly more distant and less dangerous future.

The Washington Post

It is accompanied in an only slightly more distant orbit by the whopper with a mass equivalent to more than 17 Jupiters.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slightly distant" to subtly convey a sense of detachment or remoteness without implying complete separation. It works well when describing feelings, relationships, or physical locations.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly distant" when you mean to convey a complete lack of connection or a significant separation. In such cases, stronger terms like "completely detached" or "entirely separate" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly distant" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a moderate degree of separation, either physical or emotional. Ludwig provides examples where it describes feelings, locations, or relationships that are not entirely disconnected but are not intimately close either.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

25%

Arts

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

8%

Music

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slightly distant" is a versatile adjective phrase used to describe a moderate degree of separation, either physically or emotionally. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news media, scientific publications, and the arts. To avoid overstatement, reserve it for situations where the detachment is partial rather than complete. Related phrases include "somewhat remote", "a bit detached", and "fairly removed", which can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Slightly detached

Implies a minor degree of emotional or physical distance.

Slightly removed

Indicates a minor separation or detachment.

Somewhat remote

Indicates a degree of separation, whether physical or emotional.

A bit detached

Emphasizes a lack of emotional connection or involvement.

Fairly removed

Suggests a separation from a particular situation or feeling.

Moderately aloof

Implies a deliberate coolness or lack of interest.

A touch aloof

Implies a subtle display of coolness or indifference.

Kind of separate

Highlights the distinction or division between two things.

Marginally separate

Underlines a small degree of distinction or isolation.

Somewhat estranged

Suggests a weakened or broken relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "slightly distant" in a sentence?

You can use "slightly distant" to describe something that is not very close, either physically or emotionally. For example, "The memories of that summer feel "slightly distant" now, as time has passed."

What are some alternatives to "slightly distant"?

Alternatives include "somewhat remote", "a bit detached", or "fairly removed", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a slightly distant memory"?

Yes, "a slightly distant memory" is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe a memory that is not very clear or vivid due to the passage of time or other factors.

What's the difference between "slightly distant" and "completely detached"?

"Slightly distant" implies a mild degree of separation, while "completely detached" suggests a total lack of connection. Use "slightly distant" when something is somewhat removed and "completely detached" when there's no connection at all.