Word: detached (adjective)

Associations

"Detached" means separated or not connected to something else. It can describe physical things or feelings.

• When talking about houses, a "detached house" is a house that stands alone, not connected to other houses.
• When describing emotions, a "detached person" might seem calm, not emotionally involved or distant.
• In science, "detached" can describe something that is physically separated, like a detached retina in the eye.

Synonym: "Separate" is similar but usually means just not together, while "detached" often suggests a clearer or more complete separation.

Substitution

Instead of "detached," you can say:

• "Separated" – more general, less emotional meaning.
• "Isolated" – means alone, often with a feeling of loneliness.
• "Disconnected" – can mean not physically or emotionally connected. Each word changes the feeling or focus a bit.

Deconstruction

"Detached" comes from the prefix "de-" meaning "away" or "off," and the root "attach," meaning "to fasten or connect." So, "detached" means "taken off" or "not attached."

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when you felt emotionally detached from a situation? Why?
• How would you describe a detached building versus a connected building?
• What other things can be detached besides houses or feelings?