separation

word

/ˌsɛpɝˈeɪʃən/
sep-uh-RAY-shuhn
/sˌɛpəɹˈeɪʃən/
sep-uh-RAY-shuhn

Definition

The act or process of two or more people or things moving or being moved apart; can also refer to a situation when a relationship or group breaks up.

Usage & Nuances

Usually formal or neutral; often used for physical distance ('separation between rooms'), social/relationship breakups ('legal separation' in marriage), or scientific processes. Not the same as 'division' (which implies parts), and 'divorce' (legal end of marriage) is stronger.

Example Sentences

They decided on a trial separation before making any big decisions.

natural

Long periods of separation from family can be very hard.

natural

There’s always a bit of sadness with any kind of separation.

natural

The separation of the two classrooms is a wall.

basic

After their separation, he moved to another city.

basic

The separation of chemicals is important in science.

basic