distance yourself from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distance yourself from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when advising someone to create emotional or physical space between themselves and a person, situation, or idea. Example: "In order to maintain your mental health, it may be necessary to distance yourself from toxic relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"You have to distance yourself from it," he said.

Independent

Just giving the patients drugs would only distance yourself from them".

The New York Times

"How do you distance yourself from the neighborhood you grew up in?

The New York Times - Sports

You've talked about how you might distance yourself from that company once you're mayor.

The New York Times

"When you are so doctrinaire, you distance yourself from the general population".

The New York Times

You'll want to distance yourself from this association with an appropriate counter-shape.

The New Yorker

"The humor allowing you to distance yourself from it is gone," she said.

The New York Times - Arts

Most people would say you have to distance yourself from things before you can write.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Slowly start to distance yourself from your friend.

WikiHow

If you're "stuck" in the relationship for whatever reason, try to distance yourself from it.

WikiHow

Distance yourself from friends who are always dieting or discussing weight loss.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "distance yourself from" when you want to suggest creating emotional or physical space to protect yourself or gain perspective. For example, "To maintain your mental health, distance yourself from toxic relationships."

Common error

While it's important to "distance yourself from" negative influences, don't use it as a substitute for addressing problems directly. Sometimes, confrontation or resolution is necessary, not just avoidance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distance yourself from" functions as a directive, advising the listener or reader to create separation. Ludwig provides ample examples demonstrating its use in various contexts, from emotional detachment to physical separation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

40%

News & Media

37%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "distance yourself from" is a common and grammatically sound way to advise someone to create separation, whether physical, emotional, or mental. As Ludwig AI points out, it's frequently used in contexts ranging from news articles to self-help guides, with the goal of providing guidance on managing relationships and promoting well-being. While it's important to "distance yourself from" negative influences, remember that it shouldn't replace direct communication and problem-solving. Consider alternatives like "detach yourself from" or "separate yourself from" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detach yourself from

Emphasizes a deliberate act of disconnecting or disengaging from something.

separate yourself from

Focuses on creating a clear boundary or division.

withdraw from

Suggests a retreat or removal from a situation or relationship.

disassociate yourself from

Highlights a formal or public act of distancing to avoid being linked to something.

isolate yourself from

Implies a complete separation, potentially leading to loneliness.

keep your distance from

Advises maintaining a physical or emotional buffer.

break away from

Suggests a forceful separation, often from a restrictive or negative influence.

abstain from

Focuses on refraining from something, often for moral or health reasons.

divorce yourself from

Implies a formal or legal separation, typically from a relationship or idea.

extricate yourself from

Highlights the effort required to remove oneself from a difficult or entangling situation.

FAQs

What does it mean to "distance yourself from" something?

To "distance yourself from" something means to create emotional, mental, or physical space between yourself and that thing. It's often done to protect yourself, gain perspective, or avoid negative influences.

When is it appropriate to "distance yourself from" someone?

It's appropriate to "distance yourself from" someone when the relationship is toxic, unhealthy, or causing you significant stress. This might involve limiting contact or setting boundaries.

What are some alternatives to saying "distance yourself from"?

You can use alternatives like "detach yourself from", "separate yourself from", or "withdraw from" depending on the context.

How can I effectively "distance myself from" negative thoughts?

You can "distance yourself from" negative thoughts by practicing mindfulness, challenging negative thought patterns, and focusing on positive affirmations. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques can also be helpful.