detached

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "detached" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being emotionally or physically separated from something or someone. Example: "He felt detached from the conversation, as if he were an observer rather than a participant."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

"He did not appear detached but self-confident and combative.

The Guardian

Detached at the best of times, Ancelotti had sometimes appeared outright uninterested over the past few months, and in that regard the enthusiastic Leonardo – appointed today on a two-year deal – will provide a welcome change.

The Guardian - Sport

There are pools both ornamental and for swimming, and detached cottages with sandy paths to the beach.

The Guardian - Travel

As a child I didn't care about Barbie, so my interest in the brand, and the conversations around it, has been fairly detached, objective, a lifeguard watching from one of those tall chairs.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

For within a handful of years, Stravinsky was pursuing an ironic, detached and elegant neoclassical aesthetic, which initially bewildered his fans as much as his detractors.

The Guardian - Music

"It's not often as a manager you can be detached but at 3-0 it was a case of standing on the touchline, admiring my team and enjoying it".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Our Fianna Fáil veteran sounds relieved that he will be semi-detached from this campaign after recalling anecdotes about party colleagues having buckets of water thrown over them or having to run from pet dogs being set upon them.

The Guardian

He has been semi-detached recently from the party, unhappy about the decision to go into coalition.

The Guardian - Opinion

To woo back defectors to Ukip Cameron has also promised to renegotiate Britain's already semi-detached relationship with the EU and put the result to an in/out referendum in 2017.

The Guardian

Dotted between the coconut palms are 38 rooms and suites in semi-detached cottages and two-storey units.

The Guardian - Travel

"We are talking about ordinary terrace or semi-detached houses in quiet streets, specifically bought or rented for the sole purpose of growing cannabis.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's emotional state, use "detached" to convey a sense of objectivity or lack of emotional involvement. This can be particularly effective in formal writing or when analyzing complex situations.

Common error

While "detached" can effectively describe someone's emotional state, overusing it may create a negative impression, suggesting coldness or indifference. Instead, vary your vocabulary by using terms like "objective", "impartial", or "disinterested" to provide a more nuanced description.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "detached" is as an adjective, describing a state of being separated, either physically or emotionally. Ludwig AI confirms the usability of "detached" in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "detached" functions primarily as an adjective, conveying a sense of separation or objectivity. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability in English writing. Its usage spans various contexts, from describing emotional states to physical separation, with frequent appearances in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific domains. While grammatically sound, it's essential to use "detached" judiciously to avoid conveying unintended coldness or indifference. Consider alternatives like "aloof" or "disinterested" to provide a more nuanced description.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unconnected

Implies a lack of connection or association, either physically or metaphorically.

aloof

Suggests emotional distance and a sense of superiority or disinterest.

disinterested

Indicates a lack of personal interest or investment, implying objectivity.

unbiased

Signifies impartiality and freedom from prejudice or subjective influence.

impartial

Similar to unbiased, emphasizing fairness and neutrality in judgment.

unemotional

Highlights the absence of strong feelings or emotional involvement.

isolated

Emphasizes physical or social separation from others.

separated

Indicates a state of being apart or divided, either literally or figuratively.

unaffiliated

Suggests a lack of formal association or connection with a group or organization.

independent

Implies autonomy and freedom from external control or influence.

FAQs

How to use "detached" in a sentence?

"Detached" can describe a physical separation, as in "a "detached house"", or an emotional state, such as "He remained detached from the argument".

What can I say instead of "detached"?

You can use alternatives like "aloof", "disinterested", or "unbiased" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "detached" or "unattached"?

"Detached" typically implies a previous connection that has been severed, while "unattached" suggests never having been connected in the first place. Both are correct but have different nuances.

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

"Detached" suggests a lack of emotional involvement and can imply objectivity, while "indifferent" indicates a lack of interest or concern, often implying apathy.