Meaning
距离 refers to the space between two points, objects, or people. It can be physical distance (like meters between two cities) or abstract distance (like emotional or social gaps). As a verb, it means to be a certain distance away from something.
Usage
Commonly used in both literal contexts (measuring physical space) and figurative contexts (emotional distance, time gaps). When used as a verb, it often appears in the pattern '距离...还有...' (to be ... away from). Native speakers use it in formal writing and everyday conversation alike.
Examples
- 01从这里到机场的距离大约是三十公里。.The distance from here to the airport is approximately thirty kilometers.
- 02我们应该和陌生人保持适当的距离。.We should maintain an appropriate distance from strangers.
Characters
Common collocations
- 保持距离to keep one's distance
- 缩短距离to shorten the distance
- 距离感sense of distance, aloofness
- 长距离long distance
Origin
Both characters relate to separation and space. 距 originally depicted a bent leg showing the space between steps, while 离 means departure or separation. Together they emphasize the concept of measurable space between things.