at this remove

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at this remove" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a certain distance or detachment from a situation, often in a reflective or analytical context. Example: "At this remove, it is clear that our initial assumptions were flawed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

At this remove, who can say for sure that Howard was in error?

The New Yorker

But he also held himself at this remove from just about everyone else.

The New Yorker

There is a danger, at this remove in time, of Depression nostalgia.

The New Yorker

It is easy to forget, at this remove, what a revolution Chandler wrought by turning pulp fiction into literature.

The Guardian - Books

At this remove, it is hard to say whether a press report about the festivities would have actually sunk Smith's chances for the nomination.

The New Yorker

The simplicity of the prose, the precision of his imagery, and the atmosphere of menace and cultural oblivion are invigorating even at this remove.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

At least this removes the temptation to make all of the Irishmen tousle-haired broth-of-a-boy rural charmers.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But as a portrait of an enigma, it is as good as we are likely to get or wish for at this remove.

The Economist

At this point remove from the oven and turn over the chicken using a couple of forks.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

At this stage, remove from the oven and set aside to rest. 4 Put all the ingredients for the dressing in a small saucepan and heat gently.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mansel is too English to make a good Marxist and in any case at this long remove we can surely spare a tear or two for the comprador class.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at this remove" to add a layer of thoughtful reflection when discussing past events or decisions. It subtly indicates that your judgment is informed by the distance of time or perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "at this remove" when you actually mean a literal physical distance. It's best suited for indicating a temporal or emotional distance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at this remove" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by providing a temporal or perspectival context. As Ludwig indicates, it conveys a sense of distance or detachment. It's similar to saying "from this perspective" or "with the benefit of hindsight".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at this remove" is a prepositional phrase used to introduce a perspective informed by distance, often temporal. As Ludwig shows, it is considered grammatically correct and is used in analytical or reflective contexts. While not extremely common, this phrase appears predominantly in News & Media and Scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure it reflects a thoughtful and detached perspective, avoiding literal interpretations of physical distance. Alternatives like "from this distance" or "in retrospect" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

from this distance

Indicates a perspective based on the physical or metaphorical distance from the subject.

with the benefit of hindsight

Refers specifically to judging a past event with knowledge of its outcome.

in retrospect

Focuses on reviewing past events or situations.

looking back

Emphasizes the act of reviewing or remembering past occurrences.

at this juncture

Highlights the current stage or point in time, emphasizing the present perspective.

from today's vantage point

Specifies the current viewpoint as the basis for evaluation.

given the current circumstances

Considers the present conditions as the basis for assessment.

with the passage of time

Acknowledges the impact of time on one's perspective or understanding.

considering the temporal gap

Emphasizes the time difference between the event and the current assessment.

now that time has passed

Highlights the elapsed time as a factor influencing understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "at this remove" in a sentence?

The phrase "at this remove" is typically used to indicate a certain distance or detachment from a situation, often in a reflective or analytical context. For example, you might say, "At this remove, it's easier to see the mistakes that were made."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "at this remove"?

Similar phrases include "from this distance", "with the benefit of hindsight", or "in retrospect". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "at this remove" a formal or informal expression?

"At this remove" leans towards formal, suitable for analytical writing or considered speech. In casual conversation, phrases like "looking back" might be more appropriate.

Is it correct to say "at that remove" instead of "at this remove"?

While "at this remove" refers to the current perspective, "at that remove" would refer to a specific, previously mentioned point of detachment. The choice depends on whether you're referring to the present viewpoint or a past one.