dissociate from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dissociate from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating a separation or disconnection from a person, group, or idea. Example: "After the scandal, she decided to dissociate from the organization to protect her reputation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Otherwise, ADP can only dissociate from PKA following dissociation of the Mg2+ ions.

Biochemistry

Parents dissociate from their children, and pull back.

The Guardian

So I try to dissociate from that while I'm working on a painting.

The New York Times

She can own a stage and take possession of songs that are very hard to dissociate from their original singers.

The Guardian

"Turn It Off," a terrific hymn to repression, addresses the Mormon ability to dissociate from both facts and feelings.

The New Yorker

Wins were forfeited and the N.C.A.A. forced Michigan to dissociate from Webber for 10 years.

The New York Times - Sports

Individuals dissociate from the traditional family system and kinship.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Students who solely attend a work-based learning provider are seen to further dissociate from school.

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

Trimers and tetramers dissociate from monomer-bound-defects at elevated temperatures of ca. 600 K.

Surface Science

After nicking, the fragments of the hairpin-DNAzyme probe spontaneously dissociate from the target DNA.

Talanta

Nevertheless, it is entirely possible that Pi and ADP dissociate from the transporter at separate steps of the process.

Protein & Cell

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dissociate from" when you want to emphasize a deliberate separation from something, whether it's an idea, a group, or a behavior. Consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the intended level of detachment.

Common error

Avoid using "dissociate from" in very informal contexts where simpler terms like "separate" or "disengage" would be more appropriate. It carries a level of formality that might sound out of place in casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dissociate from" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of separating or disassociating oneself from something. Ludwig confirms this is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

42%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dissociate from" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression signifying a deliberate separation or disavowal of connection, Ludwig confirms. Its usage spans across various contexts, notably science and news media, often to indicate a strategic or ethical distancing. While alternatives like "separate from" or "distance oneself from" exist, "dissociate from" provides a slightly more formal tone, emphasizing a conscious decision to sever ties. When writing, consider the formality of the context to ensure its appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

separate oneself from

This suggests a deliberate action to create distance, either physically or emotionally.

distance oneself from

Implies creating emotional or social distance to avoid association or involvement.

disengage from

Suggests withdrawing from active participation or involvement.

withdraw from

Indicates a formal or official removal of oneself from a situation or group.

detach oneself from

Implies a deliberate effort to become emotionally or mentally separated.

break away from

Indicates a more forceful or rebellious separation from something.

sever ties with

Implies a complete and often formal ending of a relationship or connection.

unlink from

This suggests removing a connection or association, often in a technical or abstract sense.

disconnect from

Implies breaking a connection, either physical or emotional.

extract oneself from

Suggests a difficult or strategic removal of oneself from a complex situation.

FAQs

How can I use "dissociate from" in a sentence?

You can use "dissociate from" to show a separation or distancing from something. For example, "The company decided to dissociate from the controversial project" or "He chose to dissociate from his former political allies".

What's the difference between "separate from" and "dissociate from"?

"Separate from" generally means to divide or keep apart, while "dissociate from" implies a deliberate action to sever ties or disclaim association, often due to disapproval or disagreement.

Is it better to use "distance oneself from" or "dissociate from"?

It depends on the context. "Dissociate from" implies a more formal and definitive separation. "Distance oneself from" suggests creating emotional or social distance without necessarily cutting ties completely.

What are some alternatives to "dissociate from"?

Alternatives include "separate oneself from", "distance oneself from", "disengage from", or "withdraw from", depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.