distanciar
“distanciar” means “to space out” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to space out
Also: to separate
📝 In Action
El arquitecto decidió distanciar las columnas para dar más luz.
B2The architect decided to space out the columns to allow more light.
Debemos distanciar las citas para que no se amontone la gente.
B1We should space out the appointments so people don't crowd together.
Distancia los cuadros un poco más.
A2Separate the paintings a bit more.
to grow apart, to distance oneself
📝 In Action
Ellos se distanciaron después de la universidad.
B1They grew apart after college.
El político intentó distanciarse del escándalo.
B2The politician tried to distance himself from the scandal.
Me estoy distanciando de mis viejos hábitos.
B2I am distancing myself from my old habits.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "distanciar" in Spanish:
to separate→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: distanciar
Question 1 of 3
How would you say 'We grew apart over time'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'distantia', which combines 'dis-' (apart) and 'stare' (to stand). It literally means 'to stand apart'.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'alejar' and 'distanciar'?
'Alejar' usually means to move one thing far away from a starting point. 'Distanciar' is more about the specific gap or space between two or more things.
Can I use 'distanciar' for social distancing in health contexts?
Yes! 'Distanciamiento social' became very common recently to describe keeping space between people for health reasons.
Is 'distanciar' a regular verb?
Yes, it follows the standard pattern for all verbs ending in -ar, like 'hablar' or 'cantar'.