WordGarden.iodistantly
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /dˈɪstəntli/
US
- /dˈɪstəntli/
Meanings
Adverb
from or at a far-off place
in an emotionally remote or unfriendly way
by only a slight or remote connection
Beyond the definition
Describing something as happening "distantly" suggests it's happening far off—not only in physical distance, but also in feeling or in how connected things are. A childhood friend might be remembered distantly, meaning the details of your time together have faded over the years. Or a storm might rage distantly on the horizon, visible but not immediately threatening. Think of looking at stars: they shine far away—beautiful, but far from everyday life. It can also mean you learn something indirectly, such as hearing about a former colleague's success through a mutual acquaintance. The key is a sense of separation or remoteness.
The word "distantly" describes something that is far away, either physically, emotionally, or in terms of connection. It implies a lack of closeness or immediacy. Imagine standing on a shore watching a ship sail distantly into the fog—it remains visible, but it is growing increasingly remote and separate from you.
"Distantly" modifies verbs to show how an action is performed or perceived. For example, "She remembered her grandmother distantly" suggests the memories were faded or lacked emotional warmth. Or the music sounded distantly through the open window, meaning it was faint and far off. It is also used to describe connections and relationships that are not close. You might be distantly related to a famous historical figure, meaning the family connection is remote. Similarly, a couple who once shared everything might now relate to each other distantly, signaling they have grown apart emotionally.
Beyond physical and emotional distance, "distantly" can suggest a lack of directness. "He alluded distantly to a problem at work" means he hinted at it without being specific or confronting the issue head-on. Whether describing a faraway object, fading memories, strained relationships, or indirect communication, "distantly" signals separation, remoteness, and a sense of being apart.
Examples
- 1
Sound
A dog barked distantly somewhere across the fields.
- 2
Expression
He smiled distantly and looked back out the window.
- 3
Memory
The tune sounded distantly familiar, but I couldn't remember where I'd heard it before.
- Phrasedistantly familiar
slightly familiar, but not clearly
- 4
Language family
English and Persian are distantly related languages.
- Phrasedistantly related
connected in origin, but not closely
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- distantlyadverb