public distance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "public distance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the physical or social space maintained between individuals in public settings, often in the context of personal space or social interactions. Example: "In crowded places, maintaining a public distance can help individuals feel more comfortable and secure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Politicians remained at a safe public distance from him.

The Guardian - Books

While keeping a healthy public distance, he was always on good terms with previous lord chancellors.

The Guardian

He has kept public distance from internal politics, but friends say he wants to be president.

The New York Times

Two elections, same candidate, seemingly the same dilemma: hold on to right-wing conservatives but keep enough of a public distance from them to court the political middle.

The New York Times

Bayliss too, despite all his public distance on the subject, may well be craving some fresh senior voices in the group that are consistent with his approach.

The Guardian - Sport

"The point of the statement is that Sodano wanted the pope to take a public distance from Schönborn, who had accused him," Mr. Rodari said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Mr. Obama's public distancing, White House officials insist, does not reflect a lack of concern.

The New York Times

A new figure as prime minister enables it to present a fresh face to the public, distancing itself from the ineptitude and kickbacks associated with Mr Gilani's tenure.

The Economist

The installation of a new prime minister will enable it to present a fresh face to the public, and distance itself from the ineptitude and kickbacks associated with Mr Gilani's tenure.

The Economist

It went on: "It is incumbent upon the seller's neighbours and acquaintances to warn and caution, first in private and then they are entitled to publish him in public, to distance themselves from him, to prevent trade from being done with him, not to have him read from the Torah and so forth until he reverses his decision that causes harm to so many people".

The Guardian

Despite the public's distance from Obama's defense budget, the survey disclosed an even larger gap between majority views and proposals by House Republicans this week to add $3 billion for an extra naval destroyer, a new submarine, more missile defenses, and some weapons systems the Pentagon has proposed to cancel.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing health measures, consider using "social distancing" instead of "public distance" for greater clarity and relevance.

Common error

Avoid using "public distance" when "social distance" is more appropriate, especially in contexts related to health, safety measures, or interpersonal interactions. "Social distance" specifically refers to the recommended space between individuals to prevent the spread of disease.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "public distance" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used to describe the spatial or social separation between individuals in a public context. Ludwig AI examples show it used in discussions of proxemics and social interactions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

37%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "public distance" is a noun phrase that describes the spatial separation maintained in public settings. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, appearing in both scientific and news contexts. Related phrases include "social distance" and "physical distance", with the choice depending on the specific nuance desired. While "public distance" refers to general spacing, "social distancing" often implies deliberate spacing for health reasons. When writing, ensure the chosen phrase accurately reflects the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

social distancing

Focuses on the social aspect of maintaining distance, often in the context of health or safety.

physical distance

Emphasizes the tangible, measurable separation between individuals.

safe distance

Highlights the aspect of safety and security in maintaining distance.

public separation

Highlights the act of separating in a public context.

keeping one's distance

Focuses on the action of an individual maintaining separation.

maintaining separation

Highlights the act of maintaining a state of being separate.

proxemic distance

Refers to the study of spatial distances between individuals.

spatial separation

Emphasizes the spatial aspect of being apart.

remaining aloof

Suggests emotional or social detachment in a public setting.

avoiding close contact

Focuses on preventing physical closeness with others.

FAQs

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

You can use "public distance" to describe the physical space maintained in public settings, as in, "According to proxemic theory, the "public distance" among pedestrians is between 3.0 m and 6.0 m."

What's the difference between "public distance" and "social distance"?

"Public distance" generally refers to the physical space maintained in public, while "social distance" often implies a deliberate effort to increase space for health or safety reasons.

What can I say instead of "public distance"?

You might use alternatives like "physical distance", "safe distance", or, in specific contexts, "social distancing" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

In what context is it best to use "public distance"?

"Public distance" is appropriate when describing spatial relationships in public areas or referring to proxemics, the study of human use of space.