grown distant

USAGE SUMMARY

"grown distant" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a relationship or connection that has become weak or strained over time. Example: Ever since their argument, Sarah and her best friend had grown distant, rarely speaking or spending time together anymore.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

It was too scary to be close, so we'd grown distant.

The New York Times - Magazine

The two friends had grown distant by the end of their senior year in high school.

The New York Times

Ms. Clarke was the political protegee of Mr. Owens, but they have grown distant.

The New York Times

After all that has happened, he said, his only surviving grandfather might have grown distant.

The New York Times - Sports

His wife was struggling with alcoholism, and he had grown distant from his children because of his demanding career.

The Washington Post

No motive was disclosed for the shootings but a woman who knew Rosenberg said he had grown distant recently.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

His letters grew distant.

The New York Times - Magazine

She grew distant.

The New Yorker

Your children will grow distant.

The New Yorker

Ed Rogers: Is Hillary Clinton growing distant from her own party?

The Washington Post

He became depressed and grew distant from his friends.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grown distant" to describe a gradual weakening of emotional bonds between people or entities. It implies a subtle process rather than a sudden break.

Common error

Avoid using "grown distant" when you simply mean that people live far apart. The phrase refers to emotional or relational distance, not geographic separation. If you are referring to physical distance, consider using "moved away" or "relocated".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grown distant" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a predicate to describe a change in the state of a relationship or entity. Ludwig examples show it describing relationships becoming weaker or less connected over time.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grown distant" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the weakening of relationships or connections. As Ludwig AI confirms, it accurately conveys a sense of emotional or relational separation over time. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it carries a neutral register and effectively communicates a deterioration in closeness. When using this phrase, remember that it denotes emotional distance rather than physical separation. Consider alternative phrases like "drifted apart" or "become estranged" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drifted apart

Suggests a gradual and subtle separation, often without a specific cause.

become estranged

Implies a more formal and definitive separation or alienation than "grown distant".

cooled off

Indicates a decrease in enthusiasm or affection, specifically in a romantic or friendly context.

become alienated

Highlights a sense of isolation and disconnection, potentially due to resentment or misunderstanding.

lost touch

Focuses on the lack of communication and contact, rather than the emotional distance.

faded away

Emphasizes the gradual disappearance of a relationship or feeling.

become indifferent

Suggests a lack of interest or concern, indicating a significant emotional detachment.

severed ties

Implies a deliberate and decisive ending of a relationship or connection.

became separated

Suggests a physical separation of individuals.

parted ways

Indicates a divergence in paths or goals, leading to a separation.

FAQs

What does it mean when a relationship has "grown distant"?

When a relationship has "grown distant", it means that the emotional connection between people has weakened over time. They may communicate less, share fewer experiences, and feel less close to each other.

What are some signs that friends have "grown distant"?

Signs that friends have "drifted apart" include less frequent communication, fewer shared activities, a decline in emotional support, and a feeling of being less connected to each other's lives.

Is it possible to repair a relationship that has "grown distant"?

Yes, it is possible to repair a relationship that has "grown distant", but it requires effort and commitment from both parties. Open communication, willingness to address underlying issues, and a conscious effort to rebuild the connection are essential.

What are some alternatives to saying someone has "grown distant"?

Alternatives to saying someone has "grown distant" include phrases like "become estranged", "drifted apart", "lost touch", or "cooled off", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.