at a safe remove

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a safe remove" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is at a distance that ensures safety or emotional detachment from a situation. Example: "She watched the argument unfold from at a safe remove, ensuring she wouldn't get involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Blood and sperm are kept at a safe remove.

The Guardian - Film

The female sits cozily between them while the male does his dance at a safe remove.

The New Yorker

Like Dominique, Rachel continued to work for her father after leaving home albeit at a safe remove, she says.

The New Yorker

Usually, the sacrificial victims are ex-ministers, or mid-ranking officials at a safe remove from real centres of power.

The Economist

The characters in "After the Quake" all live at a safe remove from Kobe, but the shock waves reach them daily via the newspaper and television.

The New York Times - Books

Inevitably, this collection will be used as a telescope through which to view Arab life and customs at a safe remove, not just a literary sampler.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Even from a safe remove, The Social Animal reeks.

Huffington Post

I dismounted and ate my lunch – sun-ripened tomatoes and soft cheese – at a suitably safe remove.

BBC

One is a nightmare, a Holocaust tale whose villains are French as well as German; the other is about coming to terms with the ugliness of the past at the safe remove of the present.

The New York Times

And so she keeps him at a safe electronic remove.

The New York Times

It is easier to manage difference at a safe colonial remove than it is at home.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at a safe remove" to describe situations where maintaining distance, whether physical or emotional, is crucial for safety or objectivity. For instance, "The journalist reported on the conflict from "at a safe remove", ensuring impartiality."

Common error

Avoid using "at a safe remove" solely for physical distance when the intended meaning involves emotional detachment. Instead, clarify the context by adding adjectives to convey the intended distance. Example: Use "emotionally at a safe remove" for affective contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a safe remove" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a state is maintained. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English. It often indicates a deliberate choice to maintain distance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Books

15%

Arts

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a safe remove" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that signifies maintaining distance for safety or objectivity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in diverse writing contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, books, and arts, it offers a nuanced way to describe detachment, whether physical or emotional. When using this phrase, consider the intended context to ensure clarity and precision, especially when differentiating between physical and emotional distance. Alternatives such as "at a safe distance" or "from a safe distance" can be employed to suit the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a safe distance

This alternative focuses on physical distance as a means of ensuring safety, similar to the original phrase.

from a safe distance

This alternative emphasizes the act of observing or acting from a position of safety.

at arm's length

This idiom suggests keeping something or someone at a distance to avoid entanglement or risk.

at a remove

This shorter version retains the core meaning of distance but lacks the explicit emphasis on safety.

emotionally detached

This phrase highlights the emotional aspect of distancing oneself from a situation.

in a secure location

This alternative specifies that the distance is maintained by occupying a location defined as safe

at a protected range

This alternative emphasizes the safeguarding aspect provided by the distance.

out of harm's way

This idiom concentrates on avoiding danger or potential negative consequences.

in a secure position

It highlight security and safety as features of the chosen spot.

from a secure vantage point

This alternative specifies that the distance allows a broader view.

FAQs

What does it mean to observe something from "at a safe remove"?

Observing something from "at a safe remove" means watching or analyzing a situation from a position that minimizes personal risk or involvement. This can apply to physical danger or emotional entanglement.

Can I use "at a safe remove" to describe emotional distance?

Yes, "at a safe remove" can describe emotional distance, implying detachment or objectivity. However, be sure to ensure the context makes your meaning clear. You might also consider using "emotionally detached" for greater clarity.

What are some alternatives to "at a safe remove"?

Alternatives include "at a safe distance", "from a safe distance", or "at arm's length", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "at a safe remove" the same as "at a distance"?

"At a distance" simply indicates separation, while "at a safe remove" specifies that the distance is maintained for safety or to avoid involvement. The addition of "safe" adds the connotation of security.