taking distance

USAGE SUMMARY

Taking distance is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to refer to the act of removing oneself both physically and emotionally, usually for the purpose of getting perspective. For example: To help better understand the situation, I am taking distance and going for a walk.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"This collection was gathered at a defining moment of our history when Iranians were taking distance from their traditional past and were showing curiosity with modern art".

The Guardian

Using an academic library has always been a crucial part of studying in higher education, but this has presented problems for independent learners taking distance education courses.

Computers & Education

Besides, the same power values are used in every unicast communication, not taking distance between nodes into account.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

This result also emphasizes the need to assess the homogeneity of markets before taking distance from markets as an indicator for market access.

Agricultural and Food Economics

It is resistant to the idea of taking distance as a fundamental concept, or to the idea of replacing statements in geometry by statements about numbers (say, as coordinates), although it is not hostile to coordinate geometry being erected upon it.

SEP

Given a fixed focal length and picture taking distance, the resolution (i.e., number of pixels) of a camera determines the smallest size of items that can be precisely located on the camera's image sensor (CMOS or CCD), namely, how small an item can be carried by a pixel on the sensed image.

Visualization in Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Research firm IDC predicts that by 2002, the number of students taking distance-learning courses will represent 15% of all higher education students, up from 5% in 1998.

Forbes

"Russian fighters take distance, stand up," said Ibragimov, who's taking lessons to improve his English.

The New York Times - Magazine

One could work out at a machine that would calibrate the number of steps taken, distance traveled and pulse rate.

The New York Times

"It often takes distance and experience for these kids to realize that what happened to them was wrong," she said.

The New York Times

Firstly, take the extra club, as the hill will encourage higher shots and take distance off the ball flight.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "taking distance" when you want to emphasize a deliberate act of creating space, whether physical or emotional, to gain a clearer perspective or to allow a situation to develop without interference. Be mindful of the context to ensure it aligns with this active connotation.

Common error

Avoid using "taking distance" when the separation occurs without a deliberate action. For instance, saying "The island is taking distance from the mainland" is incorrect; instead, use "increasing distance" or "drifting away" to reflect the passive nature of the separation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking distance" functions as a verb phrase often used to describe the act of creating physical or emotional separation. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts, emphasizing a conscious decision to create space.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "taking distance" is a valid verb phrase that describes the act of creating physical or emotional separation. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and versatile, suitable for expressing intentions to gain perspective or allow situations to unfold independently. While not overly common, it appears across various contexts, including news, science, academia, and more informal settings. Be mindful of the active connotation when using it, and consider alternatives like "distancing oneself" or "creating separation" to best fit the specific context. Remember to use this phrase when a deliberate action is taken to create the space, and avoid using it in passive scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distancing oneself

Reflexive form emphasizing personal removal.

stepping back

Suggests a pause or retreat for reflection.

removing oneself

Directly indicates the act of taking yourself away.

creating separation

Focuses on the act of making a gap or space.

creating space

Highlights the act of making room, physically or metaphorically.

withdrawing from

Implies a physical or emotional retreat.

establishing detachment

Emphasizes emotional or mental disengagement.

increasing separation

Focuses on making the gap wider or more significant.

gaining perspective

Highlights the benefit of a broader viewpoint.

establishing buffer

Implies creating a protective zone.

FAQs

How can I use "taking distance" in a sentence?

You can use "taking distance" to describe creating physical or emotional separation for clarity or perspective. For example, "To assess the situation objectively, I am "distancing myself" and "creating separation from the conflict."

What are some alternatives to "taking distance"?

Alternatives include "distancing oneself", "creating separation", or "gaining perspective", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it better to say "taking distance" or "distancing oneself"?

Both phrases are valid, but "distancing oneself" might be preferable when the emphasis is on the individual's action, while "taking distance" can apply more broadly to situations involving separation, not just personal actions. Consider the focus of your sentence.

What's the implication of "taking distance" in a relationship?

In a relationship, "taking distance" usually implies creating space for personal reflection, addressing conflicts, or reassessing commitment. It suggests a deliberate choice to "establish detachment", but doesn't necessarily mean ending the relationship.