be detached

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be detached" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts where you want to convey the idea of remaining emotionally uninvolved or objective. Example: "In order to make a fair decision, you must learn to be detached from personal feelings." Alternative expressions include "remain objective" and "stay uninvolved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

To be detached, and uninvolved.

The Guardian - Books

The small display can also be detached and used independently.

The New York Times - Tech

Just after is when interpretation can be detached from the thing interpreted.

The New Yorker

And yet for all its liberal trappings, Sufism cannot be detached from Islam.

The New York Times

Spitz was considered by many teammates to be detached, remote and given to mind games.

The New York Times - Sports

If Britain can be detached that would help derail the war drive.

The Guardian - Opinion

After that, Beam is to be detached and disposed, burning up in the Earth's atmosphere.

The New York Times - Science

(Watches can be detached from their original bands and attached to the cuffs by a jeweler).

The New York Times - Style

Mallarmé may be detached from the crowd, but he is not contemptuous of it.

The New Yorker

"You can't be detached from the human life involved with war".

The New York Times

But can the aesthetics of art be detached from its spiritual purpose?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be detached" when you want to emphasize objectivity or a lack of emotional involvement in a situation. This is especially useful in formal writing and professional contexts where neutrality is important.

Common error

Avoid using "be detached" when you mean to convey indifference or apathy. Detachment implies a controlled lack of involvement for the sake of objectivity, while apathy suggests a general lack of interest or concern.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be detached" functions as a verb phrase typically used to express a state of emotional or physical separation. As Ludwig highlights, it's found in contexts ranging from personal detachment to technical descriptions of objects being separated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be detached" is a versatile expression used to convey objectivity, emotional distance, or physical separation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While it's essential for maintaining objectivity in certain situations, it's equally important to avoid confusing detachment with apathy. Using alternatives like "remain impartial" or "be disinterested" can help fine-tune your message based on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be indifferent

This alternative emphasizes a lack of interest or concern.

be aloof

This suggests a sense of distance and superiority.

remain impartial

Focuses on maintaining objectivity and fairness.

be disinterested

Highlights a lack of personal involvement or bias.

keep one's distance

Implies a deliberate effort to avoid closeness or involvement.

be uninvolved

This emphasizes a lack of participation or engagement.

be disconnected

Suggests a lack of connection or relationship.

be separated

Implies a physical or emotional separation.

maintain objectivity

Highlights the act of keeping a clear and unbiased viewpoint.

disengage oneself

This suggests a conscious act of withdrawing from a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "be detached" in a sentence?

You can use "be detached" to describe maintaining objectivity or emotional distance. For example: "In order to make a fair assessment, you must "remain objective" and "be uninvolved" in the outcome."

What's the difference between "be detached" and "be indifferent"?

"Be detached" implies a conscious effort to remain objective, while "be indifferent" suggests a lack of interest or concern. Someone who is "detached" might still care about the situation but chooses not to let emotions influence their judgment. Being "indifferent" means not caring at all.

Are there situations where it's not appropriate to "be detached"?

Yes, in situations requiring empathy or emotional support, it's not appropriate to "be detached". For example, when consoling a friend or offering assistance, showing compassion is more helpful than maintaining emotional distance.

What can I say instead of "be detached"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "remain impartial", "be disinterested", or "keep one's distance".