separates them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "separates them" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing an action or process that causes two or more entities to be divided or kept apart. Example: "The fence separates them from the rest of the property."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

One point separates them.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet, an abyss separates them.

The New York Times - Arts

Much separates them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Now an ocean separates them.

The New York Times - Sports

One stroke now separates them.

The New York Times - Sports

But what separates them is not nationality.

The New York Times

And let's acknowledge the distinctions between them, what separates them.

The New York Times - Arts

The bitterness obscures the fact that not much separates them.

The New York Times

It really separates them from everything they do every day".

The New York Times

A glass screen separates them from visiting family.

The Guardian

Just one point separates them from the top now.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "separates them", ensure the subjects being separated are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify whether you are referring to physical distance, philosophical differences, or other distinguishing factors.

Common error

Avoid assuming the reader understands the context of the separation. Clearly state what aspect is causing the separation – is it ideology, distance, or something else? Without context, the phrase can become vague and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "separates them" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of creating a division or distinction between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase highlights differences or boundaries, both physical and abstract.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "separates them" is a versatile verb phrase used to indicate a division or distinction between entities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. It functions primarily to differentiate or distinguish subjects, with applications ranging from physical divisions to ideological differences. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to provide clear context to specify the nature of the separation. Common alternatives include "distinguishes them", "sets them apart", and "differentiates them". This phrase finds frequent usage in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts, making it a valuable tool in diverse writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sets them apart

This phrase is more emphatic in highlighting the distinction.

distinguishes them

This alternative emphasizes the unique characteristics that set them apart.

differentiates them

This option highlights the differences making them not the same.

divides them

Focuses on the act of creating a division, which can be physical or abstract.

marks a distinction between them

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the presence of a notable difference.

creates a boundary between them

Focuses on the creation of a separation, often implying a clear demarcation.

is the key difference between them

Highlights a specific difference considered to be the most important.

establishes a divide between them

Suggests the presence of a notable barrier.

cleaves them

Emphasizes the severance or splitting apart.

carves a wedge between them

Implies a forceful action that increases their division.

FAQs

How do I use "separates them" in a sentence?

Use "separates them" to indicate a distinction or division between two or more entities. For example, "Their differing opinions "separates them" on this issue".

What can I say instead of "separates them"?

Alternatives include "distinguishes them", "sets them apart", or "differentiates them" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

"Separates them" is used when the subject performing the separation is singular. "Separate them" would be used with a plural subject. For instance, "ideology separates them" vs. "different ideologies separate them".

What's the difference between "separates them" and "connects them"?

"Separates them" indicates a division or distinction, whereas "connects them" implies a link or common ground. They are antonyms, describing opposite relationships between entities.