Separated: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is commonly used when a couple is no longer living together but has not yet finalized a divorce, or they have chosen to temporarily end their relationship. It's a neutral term and can also apply to physical separation not related to marital status.

• They have been separated for a year but haven't filed for divorce yet.
• Due to his job, they were separated by distance for several months.

This term often applies when there is a significant emotional distance or disconnect between people who were once close. It is often used in more formal contexts and can imply a negative or strained relationship.

• He is estranged from his brother due to a family feud.
• They have been estranged for years after a major argument.

This word is specifically used when a marriage is legally ended. It indicates a finalized and official end to a marital relationship.

• After many years of marriage, they finally got divorced.
• She is a divorced woman raising her children on her own.

A more informal term used to describe a breakup, typically in a non-marital relationship such as dating or partnership. It can also be used in different contexts where something is divided.

• They decided to split after five years of dating.
• The band split up due to creative differences.

Used to describe something that has been moved apart, typically referring to physical distance or individualization. Often used in relationships, groups, or physical objects.

• The two towns are separated by a river.
• They have been separated for six months but still plan to reconcile.

Commonly used when discussing the action of splitting something into parts, often to distribute or allocate resources, spaces, or time.

• Divide the cake into eight pieces.
• The teacher divided the students into groups for the project.

Frequently used to indicate action where two or more objects, people, or concepts come apart. It can also be used as a noun to signify a fraction or a section of a whole.

• They had to part ways after graduation.
• The book was missing its final part.

Indicates a more abrupt or forceful division, often used in contexts of disagreement, physical breaks, or sharing something between people.

• The group split into two factions after the argument.
• Let's split the bill equally among us.