Távolságtartó

Távolságtartó is a Hungarian adjective (and, in some contexts, a noun phrase) used to describe someone or something that maintains physical distance from others, or actions and policies aimed at limiting close contact. It is most often applied to behavior, equipment, or rules designed to reduce the risk of disease transmission or unwanted proximity, but can also refer to a person who tends to keep others at a distance.

In usage, távolságtartó magatartás refers to cautious, non-contact behavior, such as avoiding close conversation or crowded places. Távolságtartó intézkedések denotes measures intended to keep people apart, for example in workplaces, schools, or public spaces. The phrase can describe a person as well, e.g., távolságtartó ember meaning someone who habitually maintains distance in social interactions. In contemporary Hungarian, it is common to specify the type of distance with terms like fizikai távolságtartás (physical distancing).

Etymology and form: the word is formed from távolság (distance) and tartó (holding/keeping), with the suffix -ó creating an adjective that denotes a characteristic or role. The form is versatile and can function as an attributive adjective or, less commonly, as a nominal phrase referring to a person who keeps distance.

Context and prominence: the term gained widespread use in public health and media during health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where távolságtartó politikák (distancing policies) and távolságtartó magatartás (distancing behavior) were common expressions. It remains part of everyday language to describe policies and individual behavior related to maintaining personal space.