The phrase "kept at a distance" refers to the act of maintaining a physical or emotional separation between individuals or groups. It describes a situation where there is deliberate or involuntary space placed between people, preventing them from forming close connections or interactions with one another. This distance can manifest in various forms such as physical distance, avoidance, or a lack of emotional intimacy.
When someone is "kept at a distance," it implies that they are deliberately being kept away or excluded from someone's personal or private life. This can occur due to a lack of trust, fear of vulnerability, a desire for independence, or the need to maintain boundaries. Being kept at a distance can also occur in professional settings, where individuals may intentionally keep colleagues or subordinates at arm's length to maintain a level of formality or hierarchy.
Furthermore, this term can also describe emotional distance between individuals, where there is a lack of mutual understanding, emotional connection, or intimacy. Such emotional barriers can arise from past experiences, differences in beliefs or values, or personal insecurities. Individuals who are kept at a distance may feel a sense of isolation, exclusion, or detachment from those who are distancing themselves.
Overall, "kept at a distance" describes the intentional or unintentional act of maintaining physical or emotional barriers between individuals, hindering close relationships and fostering a sense of separation or detachment.
