distanciarse

Distanciarse is a pronominal Spanish verb that denotes the act of creating distance from someone or something, either physically or emotionally, or of withdrawing from a relationship, situation, idea, or commitment. The action can involve reducing contact, reevaluating involvement, or changing one’s position.

Etymology and usage: It derives from distanciar (to distance) plus the reflexive pronoun se. The related noun distanciamiento refers to the process or state of distancing, and distancia denotes the general notion of distance. Distanciarse is commonly used in both everyday speech and formal writing, with de + noun (distanciarse de alguien, de una idea, de una conducta) or with phrases such as tomar distancia.

Contexts and nuance: Distancing can be deliberate (distanciarse de una relación tóxica) or the result of circumstances (distanciamiento social during a crisis). It can describe an emotional strategy, self-protection, or professional repositioning, as in “la empresa se distanció de prácticas cuestionables.” Distancing may be temporary or lasting, depending on the context and motivation.

Examples and related terms: Distanciarse de alguien o de una postura; synonyms include alejarse, apartarse, tomar distancia. Related noun forms include distanciamiento and distancia. Distanciarse is used to express altering one’s level of involvement or proximity, whether physical, emotional, or ideological.