from a distance

USAGE SUMMARY

"from a distance" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to describe an object or experience that has been viewed or perceived from some distance away. For example: "From a distance, the city skyline was ablaze with lights."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Emma watched from a distance.

The New Yorker

It's legible from a distance.

The New York Times

From a distance, I observe.

The New York Times

"He'll approach from a distance".

The New Yorker

From a distance of reading.

The New Yorker

They waited and watched from a distance.

The New York Times

Suddenly, I saw myself from a distance.

The New York Times

From a distance, it is just wire.

The Economist

From a distance, the work flummoxes evaluation.

The New Yorker

From a distance it seems vaguely abstract.

The New York Times - Arts

From a distance, Rojas, too, idealized them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "from a distance" to create a sense of detachment or objectivity in your writing. It can be particularly effective when describing observations or analyses.

Common error

Ensure it's clear who is observing "from a distance". Vague use can leave readers wondering about the perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "from a distance" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe how an action is performed or under what circumstances something is observed. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "from a distance" is a versatile and commonly used adverbial phrase that describes how something is observed or experienced without direct involvement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appears frequently in diverse contexts, including News & Media and Wiki. The primary function is to convey a sense of detachment or objectivity, and while the register is generally neutral, careful consideration should be given to ensure clarity regarding the observer's viewpoint. Alternatives like "from afar" or "at arm's length" can be used to subtly alter the meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

from afar

Similar to "from a distance", but often implies a greater physical separation.

at a remove

Indicates a state of being separate or detached from something.

at a separation

Indicates a state of being separate or detached from something.

at arm's length

Suggests maintaining a safe or cautious distance, either physically or emotionally.

via remote means

Highlights the action or execution through indirect or distant tools.

remotely

Emphasizes the lack of physical proximity or direct contact.

from a vantage point

Highlights the act of observing from a strategically advantageous location.

from the periphery

Indicates observation or involvement from the outer edges or margins.

at a spatial separation

Formally indicates physical separation between two entities

in absentia

Signifies doing something while not physically present.

FAQs

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

You can use "from a distance" to describe observations, interactions, or feelings that occur without close physical proximity or direct involvement. For example, "She watched the argument "from a distance", not wanting to get involved."

What are some alternatives to "from a distance"?

Alternatives include "from afar", "at arm's length", or "remotely", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "at a distance" instead of "from a distance"?

While "at a distance" is grammatically correct and conveys a similar meaning, "from a distance" often emphasizes the perspective or observation. "At a distance" simply states that something is far away.

What's the difference between "observing from a distance" and "ignoring from a distance"?

"Observing "from a distance"" implies a conscious act of watching or monitoring without getting directly involved. "Ignoring "from a distance"" suggests a deliberate choice to disregard something due to its remoteness or lack of personal impact.