separation
/ˌsepəˈreɪʃn/ (bre, ipa) · /ˌsepəˈreɪʃn/ (ame, ipa) · /ˌse-pə-ˈrā-shən/ (ame, mw)
separation — noun
- separationsingular
- separationsplural
1. an instance or state in which people, objects, or ideas that were once together
an instance or state in which people, objects, or ideas that were once together are no longer joined or connected, whether in space, time, or relationship.
The separation of the twins at birth was unavoidable because they needed different medical care.
separation + of + noun phrase for things taken apart
A low wall creates a clear separation between the seating area and the vegetable patch.
separation + between + two spaces
After three years of separation, Samir finally reunited with his family at the airport.
Lakan sued the school board, arguing the daily prayer violated the separation of church and state.
The recycling centre relies on the careful separation of glass, plastic, and paper by hand.
- division
focuses more on the act of cutting or splitting something into parts, often more deliberate than 'separation'
- split
more informal; suggests a sudden or forceful parting, often used for groups or relationships
- partition
refers specifically to a physical divider (wall, screen) or the act of dividing a space
- detachment
implies emotional distance or neutrality; often used in psychological contexts
- union
the state of being joined or united
- connection
a link or bond between people or things
文法句型
separation + of + noun phrase (of people/things)
separation + between + plural noun phrase
用法筆記
Often used with the preposition 'of' to name what is being separated, or 'between' to name the two groups or things being kept apart. The uncountable form is the most common; the countable form (e.g. 'a separation from one's family') emphasises a specific period or instance.
常見錯誤
2. a legal or informal arrangement in which a married couple live in separate homes
a legal or informal arrangement in which a married couple live in separate homes and lead separate lives while still remaining legally married, sometimes as a step towards divorce.
Heather agreed to a trial separation from her husband, hoping time apart might help.
trial separation — temporary arrangement with possibility of reconciliation
After filing for legal separation, Mira kept the apartment while Kian moved across town.
legal separation — formal court-recognised arrangement
During their separation, Jabari rented a room in Taipei while Saira stayed in Kaohsiung with their son.
Pedro's parents had a difficult separation when he was twelve, but they never divorced.
In Italy, Felix and Greta completed three years of legal separation at their local court before divorcing.
- reconciliation
the process of a separated couple getting back together
- marriage
the state of being married and living together as a couple
文法句型
separation + from + person (spouse)
legal/judicial separation
trial separation
用法筆記
Distinguish from 'divorce': in a separation the couple remain legally married and are not free to remarry. A 'trial separation' is informal and usually temporary; a 'legal separation' is a formal court order that settles finances, custody, and living arrangements without ending the marriage.