grow more distant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grow more distant" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where relationships, feelings, or connections between people or things become less close or intimate over time. Example: "As the years went by, they began to grow more distant from each other, both emotionally and physically."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"So if you recognise that, as we do, then you have to work even harder at maintaining the connections, making sure that they won't grow more distant generationally.

The Guardian

Chances of a quick resolution to the strike, which began on Sunday, appeared to grow more distant as negotiators hit a snag on several issues, according to people close to the negotiations taking place at the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel in Washington.

The New York Times

But as organizations grow, their members grow more distant.

TechCrunch

The analyses of patent and alliance data show that biotechnology firms that rely on external individual scientific collaborations are likely to grow closer to the future focus of innovation, while firms that emphasize R&D alliances grow more distant from the future industry focus.

Research Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Little by little, he grew more distant.

The New Yorker

When I heard that, my goal grew more distant.

The New York Times

She is growing more distant, accepting her responsibilities and preparing to fight the final battle alone.

The New York Times - Arts

Each time he came up short, his shot at an elusive fifth championship grew more distant and his send-off more bittersweet.

The New Yorker

The playoff dreams of the MetroStars grew more distant tonight as the Chicago Fire snatched a 3-0 vintory in front of a crowd announced at 7,141 at Soldier Field.

The New York Times - Sports

Despite her efforts, Lambert grows more distant, a situation made concrete at an outing to the waterfall that gives the novel its title.

The New York Times - Books

The State Department's most recent terrorism report said those ties have grown more distant, and noted that Cuba has hosted peace efforts between Farc and Colombia's government.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "grow more distant" to describe relationships, ensure the context clearly indicates whether the distance is physical, emotional, or both. For example, "After the argument, they began to grow more distant emotionally."

Common error

Avoid assuming a direct causal relationship when using "grow more distant". While distance can be a result of specific events, it can also be a gradual process influenced by multiple factors. Therefore, state the reason clearly with supporting context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grow more distant" functions as a verb phrase indicating a change in the degree of closeness or connection between entities. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, from relationships to abstract concepts like goals.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grow more distant" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a gradual increase in separation or detachment. According to Ludwig, this phrase is used across various contexts, including relationships, goals, and abstract concepts. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources, and it maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for diverse writing styles. While the phrase is generally correct, it's crucial to consider the context to ensure the reason for the increasing distance is clear. Keep in mind, as noted by Ludwig, that "grow more distant" implies a process, not necessarily a sudden change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drift further apart

Implies a gradual separation over time, often without a specific event causing it.

grow increasingly separate

Highlights the increasing state of being distinct or divided.

become more estranged

Suggests a breakdown in a previously close relationship, implying alienation.

move further away

Indicates both physical and emotional separation.

become more detached

Indicates a decrease in emotional involvement or interest.

distance themselves

Emphasizes a deliberate action to create space.

lose touch

Focuses on the cessation of communication and contact.

become more alienated

Suggests a feeling of isolation or disconnection from a group or society.

see less of each other

Directly describes a decrease in the frequency of meetings or interactions.

widen the gap

Focuses on the increasing difference or disparity between two things.

FAQs

How can I use "grow more distant" in a sentence?

You can use "grow more distant" to describe a relationship that is becoming less close over time. For example, "As they pursued different interests, they began to "grow more distant" from each other".

What's a similar phrase to "grow more distant"?

Similar phrases include "drift apart", "become estranged", or "lose touch". Each suggests a lessening of closeness or communication.

Is it correct to say "growing more distant" instead of "grow more distant"?

Yes, "growing more distant" is the present continuous form and is correct when describing an ongoing process. "They are "growing more distant" as their values diverge".

What's the difference between "grow more distant" and "become distant"?

"Grow more distant" implies a gradual process of separation, while "become distant" can suggest a more sudden or immediate change in the relationship or connection.