What does distance mean?
Distance refers to the amount of space between two points or objects, whether measured physically, temporally, or figuratively. It is one of the most fundamental words in English for describing separation — from the literal gap between cities to the emotional gulf that can grow between friends. In everyday speech, it appears in phrases like 'in the distance' (something far off), 'at a distance' (not too close), and 'within walking distance' (close enough to reach on foot). Figuratively, keeping one's distance suggests caution or emotional reserve, while distancing oneself from a person, idea, or action signals deliberate detachment, often in political or professional settings. As a verb, distance means to place someone at an emotional remove or to outperform rivals by a wide margin, as in competitive racing. Derived forms such as distant and distantly extend its meaning into description and degree. The word is neutral in tone and useful across nearly every register of English.
The amount of space between two points, people, or things.
"We drove a considerable distance before stopping for lunch."
A remote point or region in space or time.
"A ship appeared on the horizon in the distance."
Emotional or social remoteness; aloofness.
"There was a noticeable distance in his manner after the disagreement."
To make someone or something seem remote or detached; to separate oneself from a person or idea.
"The senator quickly distanced herself from the controversial remarks."
Used when referring to multiple measurable stretches, often in contexts of travel, sport, or astronomy.
"The telescope can measure distances across millions of light-years."
Distance was once measured in furlongs — a word literally meaning a 'furrow's length,' the distance oxen could plough before needing rest.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of distance
Distance derives from the Latin 'distantia', meaning 'standing apart' or 'separation', formed from the past participle stem of 'distare' — 'to stand apart' — itself built on 'dis-' (apart) and 'stare' (to stand). It entered English via Old French in the late fourteenth century, initially carrying both spatial and figurative senses. Its Latin root 'stare' also gives English other standing-related words such as 'stature' and 'constant', while the related adjective 'distant' shares the same origin directly.
Related word forms
How distance is actually used
As a verb ('to distance oneself from something'), it is common in formal and journalistic registers, especially in political contexts. The plural 'distances' typically appears when discussing measurable stretches, as in sports or travel.
Easily confused with distance
"Instants" are moments in time, whereas distance measures space or separation.