separates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "separates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the action of dividing or distinguishing between two or more things. Example: "The new policy separates personal and professional conduct to ensure clarity in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The pharmaceutical sector is one in which a yawning gap separates laboratory research on the one hand and profitable products on the other.

The Guardian - Opinion

Again, it builds towards a brilliant, unashamedly massive chorus that separates them from the blog pack.

The Guardian - Music

In a medium-size pan, bring 350ml of the coconut milk to the boil over a medium heat, then simmer for 4 5 minutes until it separates, stirring constantly to ensure it does not scorch.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When the Swans reached for the gearstick in the third quarter - the quarter that separates the pretenders from the contenders - the Blues were given windburn by a Rolls Royce of a team that is frighteningly good.

The Guardian - Sport

He nodded with his floppy hat to the left and added: "They are also parallel to us now – only the Tigris river separates us".

The Guardian

So Labour politicians have been all too aware of the cultural and political gulf between the Conservatives and the Lib Dems – whereas only a narrow valley separates Labour and the Lib Dems.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was only as I crossed the river that separates North Korea from China that I started to realise how desensitised I had become.

The Guardian - Travel

It is also a non-starter to say that populists offer simplistic pseudo-solutions, whereas real democrats do complexity: all politicians want to use plain language and be understood by "ordinary people"; the idea that a bright red line always separates populist and non-populist policies is a fantasy.

The Guardian - Opinion

"This land is what separates good from evil," says a Shia fighter, pointing at the no man's land between the two forces.

The Guardian

The win moved Stoke to within four points of their 50-point target and Adam believes they can make up the one-point gap that separates them from eighth-placed Swansea.

The Guardian - Sport

In a letter to Mr Redwood, he suggests: "Your email represents a fundamental crossing of the line that separates legitimate criticism of EU policies to the unilateral policy of being willing to breach the EU treaties and quit the EU".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "separates", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being divided or distinguished. Use it to highlight key differences or boundaries.

Common error

Avoid using "separates" in overly casual or informal writing where simpler words like "divides" or "splits" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "separates" is as a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense form of "separate". Ludwig AI confirms that it describes the action of dividing or distinguishing between two or more things, as demonstrated in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "separates" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed verb, primarily utilized to denote division or distinction. As Ludwig AI confirms, its application spans diverse contexts, from news and media to formal business settings. While suitable for various registers, it's essential to ensure clarity and avoid overuse in overly casual communication. Alternatives such as "distinguishes" or "divides" can offer nuanced expressions in specific scenarios. Being aware of potential errors and adhering to best practices will enhance your writing when using the word "separates".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinguishes

Focuses on highlighting the differences between two or more things, emphasizing clarity and discernment.

differentiates

Emphasizes the process of identifying specific differences, often in a more technical or analytical context.

divides

Highlights the act of creating a boundary or split, often implying a physical or conceptual separation.

sets apart

Emphasizes the uniqueness of something, highlighting what makes it distinct from others.

marks the boundary

Focuses on delineating the limits or borders between two things, emphasizing a clear and defined separation.

establishes a division

Highlights the creation of a formal or recognized separation, often with legal or official implications.

creates a distinction

Focuses on the act of making a difference noticeable, emphasizing the emergence of a clear contrast.

carves out

Implies a more forceful or deliberate separation, as if something is being physically cut or extracted.

demarcates

Stresses the clear and precise marking of a boundary or separation, often in a geographical or territorial context.

isolates

Emphasizes the complete separation of something from its surroundings, often implying a state of being alone or detached.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "separates"?

You can use alternatives like "distinguishes", "differentiates", or "divides" depending on the specific context.

How to use "separates" in a sentence?

"Separates" is typically used to indicate that something divides or distinguishes between two or more things. For example, "A river separates the two countries" or "The evidence separates fact from fiction".

Which is correct, "separates" or "separate"?

The correct form depends on the subject and tense. Use "separates" for a singular subject in the present tense (e.g., "He separates the papers"). Use "separate" for plural subjects or other tenses (e.g., "They separate the trash" or "I will separate the items").

What's the difference between "separates" and "distinguishes"?

"Separates" implies a physical or conceptual division, while "distinguishes" emphasizes the act of recognizing differences. For example, "The wall separates the properties" (division), and "The expert distinguishes the real painting from the forgery" (recognition of difference).