a step removed from

USAGE SUMMARY

"a step removed from" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate a degree of separation or distance from something, often in a figurative sense. Example: "His opinion is a step removed from the mainstream view." Alternative expressions include "a degree away from" and "somewhat distant from."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

These new targets are a step removed from Al Qaeda.

The New Yorker

Advice in climbing is called "beta," since it's a step removed from direct experience.

Columbia University

Art may be hard to define, but whatever art is, it's a step removed from reality.

The New York Times - Arts

But he also kept himself a step removed from unbridled psychological scrutiny.

The New York Times - Arts

Too many conservatives are persuaded that Barack Obama's liberalism is a step removed from Leninism.

The New York Times

At the same time, they may be a step removed from the realities of campus life.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

And a sale for preferred customers is only a half step removed from a members-only store.

Forbes

But outside of bloggers who have ambitious approaches to reader engagement like Mr. Baron, how do you discern if a blogger is only a small step removed from being the publicity arm of a local tourism bureau?

The New York Times - Travel

Political consulting being but a single step removed from pimping, it's a good bet either of these guys would take a few of Edwards's millions to try for one.

Huffington Post

Looking back, Lax recognizes that his appreciation for Jesus' ethics is not exactly faith: "Even though I still find His example worth following,... that is a far step removed from where I started".

The New York Times - Books

A renewal? Why, that's one step removed from a redux, and a kissing cousin to a comeback.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a step removed from" to precisely indicate an indirect connection or a degree of separation between two concepts, entities, or events.

Common error

Avoid using "a step removed from" when a simpler phrase like "slightly different" or "not directly" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a step removed from" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates that something is not directly connected to or involved with something else, implying a degree of separation or indirectness. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Encyclopedias

11%

Science

11%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a step removed from" is a versatile expression used to denote an indirect connection or a degree of separation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts. It's particularly common in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While seemingly simple, proper use requires careful consideration to avoid unnecessary complexity. Remember, it is a device to nuance associations, indicating that direct involvement is absent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at one remove from

Uses a more formal and concise expression for separation.

one stage removed from

Highlights hierarchical or sequential separation.

slightly detached from

Indicates a mild degree of separation or disconnection.

somewhat distanced from

Emphasizes the act of creating or experiencing distance.

indirectly related to

Highlights the lack of a direct connection.

a degree apart from

Indicates a difference in level or extent.

not directly involved in

Focuses on the absence of direct participation.

tangentially connected to

Suggests a loose or peripheral relationship.

vicariously experiencing

Implies experiencing something through another person or medium.

a shade different from

Indicates a slight variation or nuance.

FAQs

How can I use "a step removed from" in a sentence?

You can use "a step removed from" to describe something that is indirectly related or not directly involved. For example: "His decision was "a step removed from" the actual problem, addressing only a symptom."

What's the difference between "a step removed from" and "directly involved in"?

"A step removed from" indicates an indirect connection, while "directly involved in" suggests a direct participation or influence. They are essentially opposites in terms of involvement.

Which is correct, "a step removed from" or "one step removed from"?

Both "a step removed from" and "one step removed from" are grammatically correct and often used interchangeably. The choice depends on the desired emphasis or context. "One step removed from" may emphasize the single degree of separation more explicitly.

What can I say instead of "a step removed from"?

You can use alternatives like "indirectly related to", "somewhat distanced from", or "at one remove from" depending on the context.