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separation
/ˌsɛpəˈreɪʃən/
the act of dividing or being divided
The couple decided to go through a separation after years of marriage.
They chose to live apart and evaluate their relationship.
general
the state of being apart or divided
The separation of powers in government ensures checks and balances.
Different branches of government have distinct roles to prevent abuse of power.
The separation of church and state is a fundamental principle in many democracies.
Religious institutions and government should remain independent.
Can refer to physical, emotional, or legal division.
technical
a process in chemistry or biology where components are isolated
The separation of proteins in a lab requires precise techniques.
Scientists use methods like chromatography to isolate proteins.
Common in scientific contexts.
Collocations
separation anxietydistress when apart from someone or somethingseparation of church and stateprinciple of keeping religion and government independentseparation agreementlegal document outlining terms of a split
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
In legal contexts, 'separation' often refers to a formal split, while in everyday language, it can describe any division.
Gold Rule
Legal Context
In legal terms, 'separation' may imply a formal agreement or court process.
Word Origin
From Middle French 'séparation', from Latin 'separatio', meaning 'a parting'
Usage Notes
Often used in legal, emotional, or scientific contexts. Can be neutral or negative depending on context.
Word Breakdown
separ
to divide or part
root-ation
the act or process of
suffixEnglish Dictionary