separating

USAGE SUMMARY

'separating' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It can be used as a verb or an adjective to describe the action of creating a division or distance between two things or entities. Example 1 (verb): They are separating the recyclable materials from the non-recyclables. Example 2 (adjective): The separating wall has been painted in a bright blue color.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The series will follow the "turbulent process of separating [in] the incredibly private world of the mediation room, following couples who once adored each other end up tussling over assets.

The Guardian

Armageddon had Ben Affleck using animal cookies as foreplay on Liv Tyler's body with just five years separating them.

The Guardian - Film

The first 1000 days of a child's life are the most crucial for good nutrition but they are also the most sensitive for separating a child from their family.

The Guardian

Actually, separating at the rate of a centimetre or so each year.

The Guardian - Music

Kilmarnock's defeat also leaves their hopes of reaching the top six fading badly, with just two games left to bridge the six-point gap separating them from Hamilton.

The Guardian - Sport

Changes in family structure and parenting styles often lead to closer, friendlier and more positive relationships between parents and young adults, but this can also generate mixed messages for young adults, sometimes leading them to feel more anxious about separating from their parents and facing the challenges and risks of the outside world.

The Guardian

People farms are the dream schemes of entrepreneurs who pour capital into building gated communities, with the aim of separating baby boomers from their superannuated wealth.

The Guardian - Opinion

These were not always walls between warring enemies, but the borders separating different kinds of sound, whether reggae from ska or rock from indie, have been the site of skirmishes since the first track was laid down on shellac, and probably before.

The Guardian - Music

The berm, as it is known, cuts through farmland and orchards, separating the shrinking lands of the Iraqi state as it has existed for 95 years from the expanding territory of the new Islamic caliphate.

The Guardian

It is about separating the message from the self-interested source".

The Guardian - Opinion

Relationships at uni are important; they make you grow up a lot quicker than any amount of separating whites from colours will do.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "separating", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being divided or distinguished. Providing specific details enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Do not use "separating" without specifying what is being separated from what. Vague usage can lead to confusion. Always provide context to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "separating" is as a verb, specifically the present participle of "separate". As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it describes the action of creating a division or distance. Examples show it in use across various sentence structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

23%

Science

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "separating" is a versatile word functioning primarily as a verb to describe the act of dividing or distinguishing. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. Its frequent appearance in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific sources underscores its widespread applicability. When using "separating", ensure the context clarifies what is being divided or distinguished to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "dividing", "differentiating", and "distinguishing" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to provide enough detail for clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dividing

Focuses on the act of splitting something into parts.

differentiating

Highlights the act of recognizing or creating distinctions.

distinguishing

Emphasizes the ability to tell the difference between things.

isolating

Focuses on setting something apart from others.

detaching

Implies disconnecting or freeing something from something else.

dissecting

Conveys a more analytical and detailed separation.

segregating

Often implies a more formal or systematic separation, sometimes with negative connotations.

splitting

Similar to dividing, but can also imply a more forceful action.

disconnecting

Highlights the act of breaking a connection.

extracting

Focuses on removing something from a larger entity.

FAQs

How can I use "separating" in a sentence?

You can use "separating" to describe the action of dividing or distinguishing between two or more things. For example, "They are "separating the recyclable materials" from the non-recyclables".

What are some alternatives to using "separating"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "dividing", "differentiating", or "distinguishing".

What's the difference between "separating" and "isolating"?

"Separating" generally refers to the act of creating a division, while "isolating" implies setting something apart, often to protect it or study it. While related, their connotations differ.

Is it correct to use "separating" as an adjective?

Yes, "separating" can be used as an adjective, such as in the phrase "separating wall", to describe something that divides or distinguishes.