stand aloof

USAGE SUMMARY

"stand aloof" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
It is used to express a sense of detachment from a situation or a particular person or group. For example: "Although everyone was enjoying themselves at the party, I chose to stand aloof from the festivities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"I stand aloof," he declares, "contributing nothing except my example".

The New Yorker

As one of the world's biggest aid donors, the EU can hardly stand aloof from Africa.

The Economist

Whatever the temptation, Clegg could not stand aloof and call a curse on both parties.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is politically impossible to stand aloof and insist that national governments sort out their own troubles when the stability of the whole international financial system is at stake, or when America's vital interests are threatened.

The Economist

Should one stand aloof like Raphael, rejecting the city of one's birth, or try to modify it in light of the ideal as More's fictional-self attempts to argue?

SEP

Even so, no big grocer can stand aloof.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Unimpressive are those pastors who stand aloof--as if their title and position grants them celebrity status, places them snootily above the drivel and piddly existence of us commoners.

Huffington Post

Mies's buildings stood aloof as Mies himself stood aloof.

The New Yorker

They have so far stood aloof, seeking preferential treatment while also pursuing AHAB unilaterally.

The Economist

Think of all the influence Britain will lose, the longer it stands aloof from the European Union's flagship policy.

The Economist

At a summit meeting in Brussels late last week of the 27 European Union members, only Britain stood aloof from the plan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stand aloof" to convey a sense of deliberate detachment or impartiality, especially when describing a position taken in a conflict or debate. For example, "The mediator chose to "stand aloof" from the negotiations to ensure fairness."

Common error

Avoid using "stand aloof" when simply describing physical distance. The phrase implies a conscious decision to remain separate, not just a lack of proximity. For instance, instead of saying 'The building "stood aloof" on the hill', use 'The building stood alone on the hill'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stand aloof" primarily functions as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English to express detachment or distance. It indicates a deliberate choice to remain separate from a situation or group.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stand aloof" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verb phrase that conveys a sense of detachment or deliberate distance. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's used to describe a choice to remain separate from a situation or group, often implying impartiality or a critical perspective. While it appears across various contexts, it is particularly prevalent in news and media, as well as encyclopedic and scientific writing. When using "stand aloof", ensure you are conveying a deliberate choice to remain separate, not simply describing physical distance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distance oneself

Similar to 'detach oneself', but can also imply emotional distancing.

stay uninvolved

Directly indicates a lack of participation or engagement.

detach oneself

Highlights the act of separating from a situation or group.

remain distant

Emphasizes maintaining a physical or emotional separation.

disassociate oneself

Indicates a desire to not be connected or associated with something.

keep apart

Focuses on actively avoiding involvement or closeness.

sit on the sidelines

An idiomatic expression meaning to observe without taking part.

hold back

Suggests restraint and a deliberate decision not to participate.

abstain from

Formal term for choosing not to participate in something.

refrain from

Suggests a conscious effort to avoid doing something.

FAQs

How can I use "stand aloof" in a sentence?

You can use "stand aloof" to describe someone or something that remains separate or detached from a situation or group. For example, "The celebrity chose to "stand aloof" from the political debate."

What does it mean to "stand aloof"?

To "stand aloof" means to remain distant, either physically or emotionally, from something or someone. It suggests a deliberate choice to not get involved or to remain separate.

Which is more appropriate, "remain aloof" or "stand aloof"?

Both "stand aloof" and "remain aloof" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice between them often depends on personal preference or the specific context. "Stand aloof" can imply a more active or deliberate choice to be distant.

What are some alternatives to "stand aloof"?

Some alternatives to "stand aloof" include "remain distant", "stay uninvolved", or "detach oneself". The best choice will depend on the specific nuance you want to convey.