Detachment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
detachment
[dษชหtรฆtสmษnt ]
Definitions
mental state
The state of being detached or disconnected; indifference or lack of emotional involvement.
Synonyms
aloofness, disinterest, indifference.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| detachment |
Use this when describing a state of being unbiased or emotionally uninvolved. Often used in formal or analytical settings.
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| 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.
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| 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This implies a sense of being distant, withdrawn, or uninvolved, and can carry a slightly negative connotation.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.
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| 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.
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Examples of usage
- He maintained a sense of detachment from the situation.
- She approached the problem with a sense of detachment.
military context
The action or process of disconnecting or separating; the state of being separated from a military unit.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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Examples of usage
- The detachment of troops moved silently through the forest.
- He was assigned to a special detachment for the mission.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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 lifeโs flow.
- The Stoics argued that emotional detachment helps in maintaining rational thought and decision-making.
Origin of 'detachment'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'detachment' comes from the French word 'dรฉtacher,' 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.
The word 'detachment' originated from the Old French word 'dรฉtachement', which is derived from the verb 'dรฉtacher' meaning 'to detach'. The term has been used in English since the early 17th century, originally in a military context to refer to a group of soldiers detached from a main body for a special mission. Over time, the word has also come to be used in a more general sense to describe a state of being disconnected or indifferent.
See also: detach, detachable, detachably, detached.