At a distance is spelled with the phonemes /ət ə dɪstəns/, transcribed in IPA as ət ə dɪs-təns. The first syllable is pronounced with the schwa sound, represented by /ə/, followed by the alveolar plosive /t/. The second syllable contains the same schwa sound again, followed by the dental fricative /θ/ and the alveolar nasal /n/. The final syllable includes the schwa sound once again, followed by the voiceless alveolar fricative /s/ and the alveolar nasal /n/. The combination of these sounds results in the word "at a distance."
At a distance refers to a measurement or state of being separated or removed from something else spatially, temporally, or metaphorically. It implies a physical or metaphorical gap between two entities, indicating that they are not in close proximity or immediate contact. This expression often indicates a significant separation in space, emphasizing the need for physical or metaphorical detachment.
In a spatial context, being at a distance suggests being far from a particular location, object, or person. It implies a gap that requires traversing through space to bridge. This can refer to actual physical distance, where objects or people are not nearby, but it can also refer to a figurative or metaphorical distance, highlighting emotional or psychological detachment.
At a distance can also denote a temporal disparity, indicating that something is happening or existed in a different time frame than the present. It suggests a time gap that needs to be overcome in order to connect with or understand a particular event or era.
Furthermore, in a metaphorical sense, being at a distance embodies a psychological or emotional detachment, often denoting a lack of involvement or investment in a particular issue, relationship, or situation. It implies maintaining an objective standpoint or keeping a safe psychological distance. This detachment can be intentional, as a means of self-preservation or personal security, or it can be unintentional due to indifference or a lack of interest. Overall, at a distance implies a significant physical, temporal, or metaphorical distance between entities, highlighting a sense of removal or separation.