detached from reality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "detached from reality" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a person or situation that seems to be unaware or divorced from what is actually happening. For example: "My neighbor seems completely detached from reality and has no understanding of how the world works."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We have become a very politically detached populace (we are not, however, detached from reality TV or celebrity culture).

Huffington Post

Their ideology was profoundly detached from reality".

Independent

This critique is detached from reality.

The New York Times

But it is not detached from reality.

The Economist

The general manager seemed detached from reality.

The New York Times - Sports

He also describes him as "detached from reality".

The Guardian

But even this seems oddly detached from reality.

The Guardian - Sport

Which brings us to question: is he entirely detached from reality?

Independent

"He was (and still is) caught in a time warp, detached from reality".

The New Yorker

"We've got a president who is detached from reality," Mr. Romney said.

The New York Times

They come across as detached from reality and the urge to attack their apparent insularity grows.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "detached from reality", ensure the context clearly explains why the subject is disconnected. Providing specific examples strengthens the impact of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid casually labeling someone as "detached from reality" without providing concrete evidence or examples to support your claim. Doing so can weaken your argument and come across as dismissive or accusatory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "detached from reality" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It describes a state of being disconnected from the actual circumstances or factual information. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "detached from reality" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a state of being disconnected from facts or real-world circumstances. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase. Predominantly found in News & Media, it serves to criticize perspectives or actions deemed unrealistic or ill-informed. Alternatives include "out of touch" and "unrealistic", but careful contextual consideration is necessary for precise substitution. When employing "detached from reality", provide specific supporting evidence to strengthen your argument. Remember to avoid casual labeling without justification. This ensures clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

out of touch with reality

This alternative directly mirrors the original phrase with a slight variation in wording.

divorced from reality

This alternative indicates a strong separation from the true state of affairs.

disconnected from the real world

This phrase emphasizes the lack of connection to everyday experiences and practical considerations.

out of touch

This alternative conveys a lack of understanding or awareness of current events or trends.

unrealistic

This suggests that someone's views or expectations are not grounded in reality.

living in a bubble

This implies isolation from the real world, often due to privilege or a narrow perspective.

lost in their own world

This indicates that someone is preoccupied with their own thoughts and fantasies, rather than engaging with reality.

in denial

This suggests a refusal to acknowledge or accept the truth about a situation.

operating in a fantasy

This suggests a person's actions and decisions are based on imagined scenarios rather than real-world constraints.

delusional

This implies a more severe disconnect from reality, characterized by false beliefs or perceptions.

FAQs

How can I use "detached from reality" in a sentence?

You can use "detached from reality" to describe someone who doesn't understand or acknowledge what is actually happening, as in, "The politician's economic policies seem completely "detached from reality"."

What are some alternatives to "detached from reality"?

Some alternatives to "detached from reality" include "out of touch", "unrealistic", or "living in a bubble", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "detached from reality" in formal writing?

Yes, "detached from reality" can be used in formal writing, especially when analyzing a situation or a person's behavior. However, ensure that your assessment is supported by evidence and presented objectively.

What's the difference between "detached from reality" and "in denial"?

"Detached from reality" suggests a lack of awareness or understanding, while "in denial" implies a conscious refusal to accept the truth, even when it is presented.