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separate

adjective

/ˈsɛp ər ɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of separate

Distinct, detached, or independent from others.
"The two friends decided to go their separate ways after high school."

Detailed meaning of separate

It refers to a state of being apart or separated, whether physically, spatially, or conceptually. When something is separate, it implies a clear division or distinction from other entities or elements. This separation can be observed in various contexts, such as physical objects that are not connected or in close proximity, individuals who are not part of a collective or group, or ideas and concepts that are distinct and unrelated. The notion of separation often conveys a sense of individuality, autonomy, or differentiation. It suggests a lack of connection or integration, emphasizing the distinctiveness and independence of the subject in question. In summary, the adjective "separate" signifies the state or quality of being apart, detached, or distinct from others in some form or manner.

Example sentences containing separate

1. The couple decided to live in separate houses but remain married.
2. Please keep the dirty and clean clothes separate in the laundry.
3. The twins have separate bedrooms, but they often play together.
4. The company operates as two separate divisions, each with its own goals.
5. The artist used separate colors to create a vibrant and dynamic painting.
6. Let's keep our personal and professional lives separate.

History and etymology of separate

The adjective 'separate' finds its etymological roots in Latin and Old French. It is derived from the Latin word 'separatus,' which is a past participle of the verb 'separare,' meaning 'to set apart' or 'to divide.' In ancient Rome, 'separare' was used to describe the action of creating a division or distinction by setting one thing apart from another. This Latin term influenced Old French, where it became 'separer,' and eventually, in Middle English, it evolved into 'separate.' Consequently, the etymology of 'separate' highlights its connection to the notion of being distinct, detached, or independent from others, stemming from the Latin root 'separare' and emphasizing the act of creating a division or boundary between entities or concepts.

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Further usage examples of separate

1. The siblings have separate interests and hobbies.
2. The store has separate sections for clothing and accessories.
3. The teacher assigned separate tasks to each group of students.
4. The recipe calls for adding the dry and wet ingredients in separate bowls.
5. We need to find a way to separate the truth from the rumors.
6. Each team member has a separate role to play in the project.
7. The two roads diverge, leading to separate destinations.
8. They maintain separate bank accounts for personal expenses.
9. The twins have separate bedrooms, but they share toys.
10. The company operates as two separate entities.
11. The compartments in the train keep passengers separate.
12. The restaurant offers separate menus for lunch and dinner.
13. Let's keep our personal and professional lives separate.
14. The separate entrances ensure smooth traffic flow.
15. The cells in biology have separate functions.
16. They live in separate apartments but visit each other often.
17. The software has separate modules for different tasks.
18. The separate lanes are designated for bicycles and cars.
19. They have separate closets for their clothing.
20. The report includes separate sections for analysis and findings.
21. The museum displays artifacts from separate time periods.
22. The separate bathrooms are convenient for guests.
23. The countries have separate legal systems.
24. The separate events will take place on different days.
25. The separate bins help with recycling and waste management.