Looking up...
separate
/ˈsɛpəɹət/
distinct or apart from others
She kept her personal and professional lives separate.
She maintained a clear distinction between her personal and work life.
general
to divide or split into parts
The chef separated the vegetables into different bowls.
The chef divided the vegetables into separate containers.
Can be used both literally and figuratively.
general
existing independently or apart from others
They live in separate houses but are still close.
They reside in different homes but maintain a strong relationship.
Often used to describe physical or emotional distance.
general
a distinct part or division of something
The separate section of the bookstore was for children's books.
A dedicated area in the bookstore was reserved for children's literature.
Used as a noun to refer to a distinct part.
Collocations
separate the wheat from the chaffto distinguish valuable things from worthless onesseparate but equala concept of racial segregation where facilities are kept apart but supposedly equal
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
Remember that 'separate' can function as a verb, adjective, and noun, so context is key.
Gold Rule
Verb Usage
When used as a verb, 'separate' typically requires an object and often the preposition 'from'.
Word Origin
From Latin 'separatus', past participle of 'separare' meaning 'to separate', from 'se-' (apart) + 'parare' (to prepare).
Usage Notes
As a verb, it often takes the preposition 'from' (e.g., 'separate the clothes from the laundry'). As an adjective, it can describe physical or conceptual division.
Word Breakdown
se-
apart
prefix-par-
prepare
root-ate
to make or cause
suffixEnglish Dictionary