separating them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "separating them" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of dividing or distinguishing between two or more entities or items. Example: "The teacher focused on separating them to ensure each student received individual attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Men and women sat separately, but the mehitza separating them was soon done away with.

Wikipedia

The difficulty is separating them.

The New York Times - Arts

Illustration shows a huge device separating them.

The New Yorker

There was no separating them after all.

The Guardian - Sport

"Science is better served separating them".

The New York Times

According to this logic, separating them would bring peace.

The New York Times

Secondly, how can you even think about separating them anyway?

Independent

But we are streaming people and separating them.

Independent

The critical factor separating them is their ages.

The New York Times - Sports

Pull out the seeds, separating them from the flesh.

The Guardian

There was in fact a wall separating them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "separating them", ensure the context clearly defines what "them" refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "separating them" when the entities are not clearly defined or easily distinguishable. This can lead to confusion and weaken your argument. Instead, specify what is being separated to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "separating them" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as a noun or part of a verb phrase. As shown by Ludwig, it describes the action of dividing or distinguishing elements, often to create order or clarity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "separating them" is a grammatically sound and frequently used gerund phrase, primarily functioning to describe the action of dividing or distinguishing between entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific literature, indicating its versatility. To ensure clarity, especially with the large number of examples, it's important to define what "them" refers to. While alternatives like "dividing them" and "distinguishing them" offer similar meanings, the specific choice depends on the nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dividing them

This alternative is a direct synonym, focusing on the act of creating distinct groups.

distinguishing them

This alternative emphasizes the act of recognizing differences between items.

differentiating them

This alternative focuses on identifying characteristics that make items dissimilar.

isolating them

This alternative focuses on setting items apart to be alone or separate.

detaching them

This alternative suggests physically disconnecting or removing something.

segregating them

This alternative implies enforced separation, often with negative connotations.

partitioning them

This alternative focuses on creating sections or divisions within a larger group.

splitting them

This alternative indicates breaking something into smaller parts.

disintegrating them

This alternative suggests causing something to break apart into small pieces.

severing them

This alternative implies a forceful or abrupt cutting off.

FAQs

How can I use "separating them" in a sentence?

You can use "separating them" when discussing the act of dividing or distinguishing between two or more entities or items. For example, "The key to success is "separating them" into manageable tasks".

What are some alternatives to "separating them"?

You can use alternatives like "dividing them", "distinguishing them", or "isolating them" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "separating them" versus "distinguishing them"?

"Separating them" implies a physical or conceptual division, while "distinguishing them" focuses on recognizing differences.

Is "separating them" grammatically correct?

Yes, "separating them" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English to describe the action of dividing or setting apart items or ideas.