a bit of distance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit of distance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small amount of space or emotional separation between people or things. Example: "After the argument, I felt it was best to keep a bit of distance from my friend until we could talk things over."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There's always a bit of distance.

The New York Times - Books

But in their operations, a bit of distance would help.

The Economist

"I guess it's having a bit of distance.

The Guardian

"There's a bit of distance... [and not] a human presence".

Independent

Comedy provides a bit of distance from this sad business.

The New Yorker

I wonder if he feels any nostalgia for the 90s, now there's a bit of distance.

The Guardian - Music

It would be incredibly useful if AONBs had a bit of distance from local authorities.

The Guardian

"I have to take that with a bit of distance," he said.

Independent

But it's also good to have a bit of distance from some of the heroines.

The Guardian - Books

Once you have a bit of distance from the event, you can devise a response with more clarity.

WikiHow

But writing in English made the criticism a little less wounding because it gave him a bit of distance.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a bit of distance" when you want to suggest a need for emotional or physical separation, allowing for clearer perspective or reduced intensity in a situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a bit of distance" when describing objects that are already very close to each other. The phrase implies a deliberate separation where there is potential for closeness or entanglement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a bit of distance" is as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It signifies a small degree of separation, either physically or emotionally, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a bit of distance" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to suggest a need for separation to gain perspective or reduce intensity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and applicable in numerous contexts, mostly in neutral register. This separation can be both physical and emotional. Predominantly found in News & Media, as well as Wiki sources, its usage implies a desire for clarity or a more objective viewpoint. When using this phrase, it's essential to ensure the context supports the idea of a deliberate separation to avoid misuse. Remember this phrase offers opportunity and objectivity, by separating entities (people, objects, ideas). It does not suggests a deep separation, but only a bit of it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some space

Focuses on the physical or emotional separation, emphasizing the area between objects or individuals.

slight separation

Highlights the act of dividing or setting apart to a small degree.

a degree of separation

Suggests a measured amount of detachment or removal.

a little breathing room

Emphasizes the need for space to relax or gain perspective.

some perspective

Shifts the focus to gaining a clearer understanding through detachment.

emotional detachment

Specifically refers to a lack of emotional involvement or connection.

physical separation

Highlights the act of being physically apart from someone or something.

a step back

Implies a deliberate action to create distance for evaluation or reflection.

room to maneuver

Suggests having enough space or freedom to act or operate effectively.

strategic removal

Emphasizes a deliberate and planned withdrawal to gain an advantage.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit of distance" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit of distance" to suggest creating space for clarity or perspective, such as, "After the argument, I needed "a bit of distance" to think clearly."

What are some alternatives to "a bit of distance"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "some space", "slight separation", or "some perspective".

When is it appropriate to use "a bit of distance"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize creating either physical or emotional separation from a situation or person to gain clarity or reduce intensity.

What is the difference between "a bit of distance" and "emotional detachment"?

"A bit of distance" suggests a temporary separation for perspective, while "emotional detachment" implies a more permanent state of reduced emotional involvement.