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Detachment: meaning, definitions and examples

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detachment

 

[dɪˈtætʃmənt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mental state

The state of being detached or disconnected; indifference or lack of emotional involvement.

Synonyms

aloofness, disinterest, indifference.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detachment

Use this when describing a state of being unbiased or emotionally uninvolved. Often used in formal or analytical settings.

  • The judge maintained his detachment during the trial.
  • Her detachment allowed her to make rational decisions even under pressure.
indifference

This describes a lack of interest, concern, or sympathy, and often carries a negative connotation. It suggests that someone does not care about something important.

  • Her indifference to the suffering around her was shocking.
  • He reacted to the news with complete indifference, as if it didn't matter.
aloofness

This implies a sense of being distant, withdrawn, or uninvolved, and can carry a slightly negative connotation. It is often used to describe someone who seems uninterested or unapproachable.

  • His aloofness made it hard for others to get to know him.
  • She maintained a certain aloofness that kept people at a distance.
disinterest

Use this when referring to a lack of interest or concern, often in a neutral or clinical manner. Can be both positive and negative depending on context.

  • The disinterest shown by the audience was concerning.
  • His disinterest in the outcome allowed him to stay objective.

Examples of usage

  • He maintained a sense of detachment from the situation.
  • She approached the problem with a sense of detachment.
Context #2 | Noun

military context

The action or process of disconnecting or separating; the state of being separated from a military unit.

Synonyms

division, separation, unit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detachment

In this repeat, it again refers to the separation of a smaller group from a larger group, typically in a military sense or in terms of emotional disconnection.

  • A police detachment arrived to secure the area.
  • Her emotional detachment helped her cope with the difficult news.
separation

This word commonly refers to the act of splitting something into distinct parts or the state of being apart. It is often used in a personal or physical context, such as relationships or objects.

  • The separation of recyclable materials is important for the environment.
  • After many years of marriage, their separation was difficult for both of them.
division

This term is often used when talking about splitting something into parts or sections, such as within an organization or a piece of work. It can also imply disagreement or conflict when referring to people or opinions.

  • The company created a new division to handle the increased workload.
  • There was a deep division among the members of the committee about the final decision.
unit

Used to describe a single, complete entity often part of a larger whole, such as in a military, educational, or medical context. It implies unity and cohesion within the single entity.

  • The medical unit was well-equipped to handle emergencies.
  • In mathematics, a unit is a single object or entity considered individually.

Examples of usage

  • The detachment of troops moved silently through the forest.
  • He was assigned to a special detachment for the mission.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'detachment' comes from the French word 'détacher,' which means to unfasten or separate.
  • In medieval times, the concept referred to the separation of soldiers from their units for specific tasks.
  • The term evolved in English by the late 17th century, primarily used in military and philosophical contexts.

Psychology

  • In psychology, detachment can refer to emotional distancing, a strategy some people use to protect themselves from stress.
  • It is often discussed in relation to coping mechanisms, where a person might detach to avoid overwhelming feelings.
  • Mindfulness practices encourage healthy detachment, allowing individuals to observe their thoughts without judgment.

Literature

  • Many authors explore themes of detachment, depicting characters who struggle to connect emotionally with others.
  • Classic novels often illustrate detachment as a form of existential crisis, where characters feel alienated in their surroundings.
  • Poets frequently describe the feeling of detachment as a means of reflecting on the human condition and seeking personal truth.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters sometimes show detachment as a way to cope with trauma or loss, allowing audiences to empathize with their struggles.
  • The concept of 'detachment' is popular in various self-help books, often positing that letting go leads to greater happiness.
  • Many songs express feelings of detachment, resonating with listeners who have experienced emotional distance in relationships.

Philosophy

  • In philosophical discussions, detachment is linked to the idea of non-attachment, suggesting a path to inner peace and wisdom.
  • Buddhist philosophy emphasizes the importance of detachment from desires to achieve enlightenment, advocating for a calm acceptance of life’s flow.
  • The Stoics argued that emotional detachment helps in maintaining rational thought and decision-making.

Translations

Translations of the word "detachment" in other languages:

🇵🇹 destacamento

🇮🇳 अलगाव

🇩🇪 Abteilung

🇮🇩 detasemen

🇺🇦 відокремлення

🇵🇱 oddział

🇯🇵 分離

🇫🇷 détachement

🇪🇸 desapego

🇹🇷 ayrılma

🇰🇷 분리

🇸🇦 انفصال

🇨🇿 oddělení

🇸🇰 oddelenie

🇨🇳 分离

🇸🇮 ločitev

🇮🇸 aðskilnaður

🇰🇿 бөліну

🇬🇪 გამოყოფა

🇦🇿 ayrılma

🇲🇽 desapego

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,820 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.