separate but interlocking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "separate but interlocking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe elements that are distinct from one another yet still connect or interact in some way. Example: "The two departments operate separately but interlocking, ensuring that their goals align for the overall success of the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

There is a surprisingly high use of hand-held cameras, three separate but interlocking stories take place in San Francisco, London and Paris, and there's also a blockbuster action sequence worthy of Steven Spielberg.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It weaves together two apparently separate, but eventually interlocking narratives – one moving backwards in time, the other moving forward.

The Guardian - Film

Van Gaal's formations divide the pitch not into straight lines but interlocking triangles.

The Guardian - Sport

Separate but equal.

The New York Times

It was separate, but funkier.

The New York Times - Arts

"Separate but equal," she says.

Independent

It sounded awfully like separate but equal.

The Economist

Single-Sex Schools: Separate but Equal?

The New York Times

They're at once separate but linked.

BBC

Two chimpanzees entered separate but facing rooms.

Science Magazine

Two separate but related issues arise.

FAO

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure that the context clearly establishes both the separation and the connection. Providing examples or further explanation can prevent ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "separate but interlocking" without providing sufficient context. The relationship between the separate elements might not be obvious to the reader, so clarity is essential.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "separate but interlocking" functions as a descriptive compound adjective. It modifies a noun by specifying a relationship where elements are distinct yet connected in a meaningful way. Ludwig AI validates this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "separate but interlocking" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to describe elements that are both distinct and interconnected. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys a complex relationship that goes beyond simple separation or connection. Its usage is relatively common across diverse contexts, including news, science, and formal writing, making it a valuable tool for precise communication. While the individual components are considered as "separate", they still "interlock". Always ensure sufficient context to make this dual nature clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinct yet interconnected

Emphasizes the individuality of elements while highlighting their mutual connection.

independent but linked

Stresses the autonomy of elements while acknowledging a relationship between them.

discrete but related

Focuses on the separateness of elements and their shared association.

individual but integrated

Highlights the unique identity of elements and their incorporation into a larger whole.

autonomous yet dependent

Underscores the self-governance of elements and their reliance on one another.

differentiated but connected

Points out the differences between elements while affirming their link.

segregated but unified

Highlights the divided nature of elements, but shows they work as a single entity.

isolated yet correlated

Highlights that despite the elements being isolated, they correlate with each other.

detached but intertwined

Highlights the individual nature of elements, but shows they have been woven together.

unrelated but associated

Points out that these elements lack direct relations but they do have some association.

FAQs

How can I use "separate but interlocking" in a sentence?

This phrase works best when describing two or more elements that maintain their individual identities but are also interconnected. For example: "The company's departments are "separate but interlocking", allowing each to specialize while contributing to the overall mission."

What's a more concise alternative to "separate but interlocking"?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives like "interdependent", "interrelated", or "linked". However, these may not fully capture the sense of distinctness combined with connection.

Is it redundant to say "separate but interlocking"?

While seemingly contradictory, the phrase isn't necessarily redundant if you want to emphasize both the distinctness and the interdependence of the elements. It highlights a more complex relationship than simply being "separate" or simply being "interlocking".

What's the difference between "separate but interlocking" and "independent but connected"?

While similar, "separate but interlocking" implies a more active or structural connection, like gears in a machine. "Independent but connected" suggests a more general relationship where elements can influence each other without being directly linked. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.