a little more distant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a little more distant" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is slightly farther away in terms of physical distance, emotional distance, or metaphorical distance. Example: "After the argument, I felt a little more distant from my friend than before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Bart Scott says, "Rex was a little more distant, more disconnected".

The New Yorker

He described Lochte as "a great guy," but Clary, who trained alongside Phelps for a year, said, "My relationship with Michael is a little more distant".

The New York Times - Sports

Mr Ma's dream of meeting China's leader, Xi Jinping, before the end of his presidential term in 2016, may have become a little more distant.(Picture credit: AFP).

The Economist

If Ms. Minnelli's shows at the Palace are successful, the turbulent past will be a little more distant in the rearview mirror.

The New York Times

"If it didn't work the first two times with the juries that were selected, I think it's less likely that it will work right now because that fear of terrorism is a little more distant in our minds".

The New York Times

Maybe they're a little more distant.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Happy endings seem a little more remote in 2016 — miles away, as they say, or at least as distant as the next election.

The New York Times

Probably both these camps were in some way connected with the extensive Roman station at Wycomb, a little more than a mile distant.

University of Chicago

"Metal people are a little cooler, a little bit more distant.

HuffPost

So that homeowner stretches a little more to try to reach a distant clump of leaves – and shave a few minutes off the clock.

Harvard Business Review

If "Fargo" returns, next time I hope it's a little less careful and distant and a little more heedless and bold.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a little more distant" to subtly indicate a change in relationship, physical space, or emotional connection without being overly dramatic. This phrase is useful when you want to downplay the degree of separation.

Common error

Avoid using "a little more distant" excessively in formal or academic writing, as it might come across as too informal or vague. Opt for more precise language that clearly defines the degree and nature of the distance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little more distant" primarily functions as an adverbial modifier. It typically modifies a verb or adjective to indicate a slight increase in distance, detachment, or remoteness. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a little more distant" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase to indicate a slight increase in distance, whether physical, emotional, or metaphorical. Ludwig AI confirms this, and provides examples from various sources such as news, science, and wiki articles. While generally neutral in register, it's best to use more precise language in formal settings. Semantically related phrases include "somewhat more remote" and "a bit more detached". Understanding the nuances of its usage allows for more effective and contextually appropriate writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat more remote

Emphasizes the increased degree of physical or metaphorical distance.

slightly further removed

Focuses on the act of being taken away or separated to a greater extent.

a bit more detached

Highlights an increase in emotional or personal disconnection.

marginally more aloof

Suggests a slight increase in coolness or indifference.

relatively more separate

Indicates a greater state of being apart or distinct.

a shade more isolated

Emphasizes the increased feeling of being alone or cut off.

somewhat more estranged

Focuses on the increased breakdown of a relationship or connection.

a little less connected

Highlights the decrease in the feeling of being linked or related.

slightly more withdrawn

Indicates an increase in the act of pulling back or retreating.

relatively more inaccessible

Emphasizes the increased difficulty in reaching or approaching someone or something.

FAQs

How can I use "a little more distant" in a sentence?

You can use "a little more distant" to describe a slight increase in physical distance, emotional detachment, or abstract separation. For instance, "After the argument, he seemed "a little more distant" than usual."

What are some alternatives to "a little more distant"?

Alternatives include "somewhat more remote", "slightly further removed", or "a bit more detached" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a little more distant" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to indicate a subtle change in distance or detachment without being overly forceful or dramatic. It works well in both narrative and descriptive writing.

Is "a little more distant" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a little more distant" might be considered too informal for some formal contexts. Consider using a more precise or sophisticated alternative like "relatively more separate" in academic or professional settings.