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Distant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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distant

[หˆdษชstษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

Far away in space or time. Remote in space or time.

Synonyms

far, far-off, remote.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
distant

This word is often used to describe something that is far away in terms of physical distance or in emotional relationships. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

  • Her house is in a distant village.
  • He seemed distant and uninterested during the conversation.
far

A very general term, used to describe something that is a long distance from a certain point. It's commonly used in everyday speech and writing.

  • We walked far into the forest.
  • How far is the nearest gas station?
remote

Often used to describe places that are not easily accessible or that are isolated. Can also refer to the likelihood of something happening, usually implying it is not very likely.

  • They live in a remote village with no electricity.
  • There is a remote chance of rain tomorrow.
far-off

Typically used to describe something that is very far away, either literally or figuratively. This word often conveys a sense of being very distant, more than just 'far'.

  • They dreamed of traveling to far-off lands.
  • In the far-off future, we might have flying cars.

Examples of usage

  • The distant mountains looked blue in the afternoon light.
  • He could see a distant figure in the foggy distance.
Context #2 | Adjective

relationship

Not close or familiar. Emotionally detached or reserved.

Synonyms

aloof, cold, reserved.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
distant

Use this word to describe someone who is emotionally or physically far away. It often implies a lack of closeness or intimacy. This is a neutral term.

  • Ever since he moved to another city, we've grown distant.
  • Her distant behavior makes it hard to get to know her.
aloof

This term is used when someone intentionally keeps away from others, showing little interest or involvement. It can have a slight negative connotation.

  • At the party, he remained aloof, standing in the corner by himself.
  • She is often aloof with strangers, preferring to observe rather than engage.
reserved

This is used to describe someone who is shy or keeps their thoughts and feelings to themselves. It is a neutral term and often implies politeness and self-control.

  • He's always been a reserved person, never one to share much about himself.
  • At meetings, she is reserved and prefers to listen rather than speak.
cold

This word describes a person who is unemotional or unfeeling. It usually has a strongly negative connotation and suggests a lack of warmth and kindness.

  • His cold response made her feel unwanted and hurt.
  • She had a cold demeanor, never showing any signs of affection.

Examples of usage

  • They had a distant relationship, rarely speaking to each other.
  • She seemed distant and preoccupied during the meeting.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, characters can feel 'distant' emotionally, indicating a disconnect in feelings or relationships.
  • Many poets use the concept of distance to evoke feelings of longing or nostalgia in their works, emphasizing separation.

Science

  • In astronomy, 'distant' objects can refer to stars and galaxies that are light-years away from Earth, studied through telescopes.
  • The term is also used in physics to describe forces that weaken over longer distances, like gravity or electromagnetic forces.

Psychology

  • People can feel 'distant' in relationships, indicating a lack of closeness or emotional connection with others.
  • Psychological distance can influence decision-making, as people often feel less invested in things perceived as far away.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and movies often explore themes of being 'distant' in love, highlighting the struggles and emotional toll of long-distance relationships.
  • The phrase 'distant memories' is commonly used in pop culture to evoke nostalgia or reminiscence about the past.

Origin of 'distant'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'distant-', the present participle of 'distare,' meaning 'to stand apart.'
  • In Old French, the form 'distant' began being used around the 14th century, carrying the same meaning of being far away.

The word 'distant' originated from the Latin word 'distans', which is the present participle of 'distantare', meaning 'to stand apart'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe something far away in space or time. Over the years, 'distant' has evolved to also describe emotional detachment or reserve in relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,604, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.