a separation of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a separation of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act or process of dividing or distinguishing between two or more entities, concepts, or items. Example: "The study focuses on a separation of duties to enhance security and accountability within the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Separating the gender implies there is, or should be, a separation of both interests and opinions.

Huffington Post

Standard flight procedures require a separation of five nautical miles.

The New York Times

"That's why there's a separation of powers," David Wright said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Judges cannot claim a separation of powers issue here.

The New York Times

"What we need is a separation of banking and government.

The Guardian

Soon we fell naturally into a separation of labor.

The New York Times - Travel

Functions can also enforce a separation of concerns.

University of California, Berkeley

Why do we have a separation of powers?

University of California, Berkeley

This is not a separation of powers issue.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

He sees my political activity as a separation-of-church-and-state issue.

The New York Times

That Clause constitutes a separation-of-powers limitation that Appellants can invoke to challenge their prosecutions….

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a separation of" to clearly indicate a distinction or division between two or more distinct entities, ensuring the context emphasizes their separateness.

Common error

Avoid using "a separation of" vaguely; specify why the separation is important or what benefits it brings. For example, instead of just stating "there is a separation of tasks", clarify that "a separation of tasks ensures accountability and reduces the risk of errors".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a separation of" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves to introduce the concept of dividing or distinguishing between two or more things. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase indicates the act or process of dividing or distinguishing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a separation of" is a versatile expression used to denote a distinction or division between two or more entities. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts. The phrase is commonly found in news and media, science, and academic writing. It’s important to use this phrase when you want to emphasize a clear distinction, and to avoid vagueness by specifying the purpose or benefits of the separation. Related phrases include "a distinction between" and "a division of".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distinction between

Replaces "separation" with "distinction", emphasizing the act of differentiating between items.

a division of

Substitutes "separation" with "division", highlighting the act of splitting something into parts.

a segregation of

Replaces "separation" with "segregation", focusing on the act of keeping things apart.

a demarcation of

Substitutes "separation" with "demarcation", emphasizing the setting of boundaries.

a partitioning of

Replaces "separation" with "partitioning", stressing the act of dividing into sections.

a detachment from

Changes "separation of" to "detachment from", highlighting a disconnection or disengagement.

an isolation of

Substitutes "separation" with "isolation", focusing on the state of being set apart.

a severance of

Replaces "separation" with "severance", emphasizing a formal or decisive cut off.

a split between

Changes "separation of" to "split between", suggesting a fracture or divergence.

a disjunction between

Replaces "separation" with "disjunction", emphasizing a lack of connection.

FAQs

How can I use "a separation of" in a sentence?

Use "a separation of" to indicate a distinction or division between two or more things. For example: "The company implemented "a separation of duties" to prevent fraud".

What phrases are similar to "a separation of"?

Similar phrases include "a distinction between", "a division of", or "a segregation of", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "separation between" or "separation of"?

"Separation of" is generally preferred and more grammatically correct when indicating the division or distinction between two entities. "Separation between" isn't incorrect, but less common in formal writing.

When is it appropriate to use "a separation of" in formal writing?

It's appropriate in contexts where you need to emphasize a clear distinction or division, such as in legal documents, academic papers, or business reports. For instance, "a separation of powers is crucial in a democratic government".