appropriate distance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appropriate distance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a suitable or proper amount of space or separation between two entities, whether physical or metaphorical. Example: "In order to maintain a healthy relationship, it's important to keep an appropriate distance from each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

While China remains a domestically repressive regime, Britain should maintain an appropriate distance.

Independent

"But in a news report you have to keep an appropriate distance.

Independent

Yet he stopped short of portraiture, keeping his subjects — who were also his employees — at a socially appropriate distance.

The New York Times - Arts

Her identification with her subjects can produce jarring anachronism ("nerdboy W. B. Yeats"), but the difficulty of finding appropriate distance is part of her theme.

The New Yorker

Love from an appropriate distance, e-Tony xx [email protected] Email e-Tony with your suggestions for an effective election campaign and help him win our online poll.

The Guardian

Similarly, if we want credit-rating agencies to be objective, they need to keep an appropriate distance from the issuers of the securities they assess.

The New York Times

For The Times, keeping the appropriate distance is important and the paper was wise to curb whatever P.R. advising the peripatetic Pogue has been doing.

The New York Times

An appropriate distance to Target at which to stop An appropriate distance to Target to start deceleration An appropriate distance to Target to give a warning.

ROBOMECH Journal

An appropriate distance to Target at which to stop.

ROBOMECH Journal

An appropriate distance to Target to give a warning.

ROBOMECH Journal

An appropriate distance to Target to start deceleration.

ROBOMECH Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts like objectivity or relationships, use "appropriate distance" to suggest maintaining a healthy separation for clarity or well-being.

Common error

Avoid using "appropriate distance" in casual conversation or informal writing where simpler terms like "enough space" or "far enough" would be more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appropriate distance" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "appropriate" modifies the noun "distance". Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English. It describes a measure of separation deemed suitable or proper.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "appropriate distance" is a versatile phrase used to describe a suitable or proper separation, both physically and metaphorically. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent use in diverse fields like science, news, and business. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure the level of formality is fitting. Alternatives like "suitable separation" or "proper spacing" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. By understanding its usage patterns and potential pitfalls, you can effectively incorporate "appropriate distance" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suitable separation

Emphasizes the act of separating by a distance that is suitable or fitting.

proper spacing

Focuses on the arrangement of elements with the correct amount of space between them.

adequate interval

Replaces "distance" with "interval", suggesting a temporal or spatial gap that is sufficient.

requisite gap

Highlights the necessity of the distance; a gap that is required for a specific purpose.

fitting range

Implies that the distance falls within a suitable or ideal scope.

desirable proximity

Highlights that the distance might be about closeness rather than separation but still within an ideal limit.

optimum standoff

Suggests a calculated or strategic distance, especially to maintain security or objectivity.

comfortable berth

Uses nautical term to refer to a safe or manageable distance.

judicious separation

Emphasizes that the separation is well thought out and makes good sense.

strategic buffer

Highlights the protective nature of keeping some distance.

FAQs

How can I use "appropriate distance" in a sentence?

You can use "appropriate distance" to describe a physical separation, as in, "Maintain an appropriate distance from the machinery for safety", or an emotional separation, as in, "It's important to keep an appropriate distance in professional relationships".

What's the difference between "appropriate distance" and "/s/proper+distance"?

"Proper distance" implies correctness or adherence to a standard, while "appropriate distance" suggests suitability for a particular situation. They can often be used interchangeably, but "appropriate distance" has a slightly broader connotation.

Which is better, "appropriate distance" or "/s/suitable+distance"?

Both "appropriate distance" and "suitable distance" are acceptable and largely synonymous. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific context. "Appropriate" might suggest a more deliberate selection, while "suitable" implies a general fitness.

What are some alternatives to "appropriate distance" in interpersonal relationships?

In the context of relationships, consider using phrases like "/s/healthy+boundaries", "emotional space", or "professional boundaries", depending on the specific situation.