separated

word · lemma: separate

/ˈsɛpɝˌeɪtɪd/
SE-puh-RAY-tid
/sˈɛpəɹˌeɪtɪd/
SE-puh-RAY-tid

Definition

Kept apart from something else, not together or connected. It can describe physical distance, different groups or parts, or people who are no longer living together as a couple.

Usage & Nuances

Common with 'be separated from/by': 'The kids were separated from their parents' and 'The two towns are separated by a river.' 'Separate' is the base adjective/verb; 'separated' often emphasizes a resulting state. For relationships, 'separated' usually means married but living apart, not yet divorced.

Example Sentences

The books are separated by color.

basic

The two rooms are separated by a wall.

basic

The children were separated from their parents at the station.

basic

Even though we're separated, we still talk about the kids every week.

natural

Keep the clean clothes separated from the dirty ones.

natural

We got separated in the crowd, so let's pick a meeting point next time.

natural