Meaning & use
detaching
Last updated
“detaching” is a form of “detach”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
verbtransitive or intransitive
Separating or removing something from something else that it is connected to.
Grammar: Can be used with an object (detach something) or without (something detaches). Often followed by 'from'.
Patterns
- detach something from something
- detach from something
She is detaching the old sticker from the window.
The trailer is detaching from the truck.
Detaching the screen from the keyboard takes just a second.
verbintransitivefigurative
Becoming emotionally distant or uninvolved; disengaging.
Grammar: No object; often used with 'from' to show what one is distancing from.
Patterns
- detach from someone
- detach from something
He is detaching himself from the conflict to stay calm.
After the argument, she started detaching from her friends.
The therapist suggested detaching from negative thoughts.
Word forms
| third person singular | detaches |
|---|---|
| past tense | detached |
| past participle | detached |
| -ing form | detaching |
Common combinations
- detach from something
- Please detach the form from the booklet before filling it out.
- detach oneself from something
- He detached himself from the group to avoid drama.
- detach the part
- You can detach the part if it's not needed.
Synonyms and how they differ
- separate
- More general; can mean to move apart or divide, while 'detach' often implies removing a connected part.
- disconnect
- Often used for electrical or mechanical connections; 'detach' is broader.
- remove
- Focuses on taking something away, not necessarily from a connection.
Opposites
Word family
- detachment noun
- The state of being detached or a group of soldiers sent away from the main force.
- detached adjective
- Not connected; also emotionally distant.
Commonly confused: detaching or detain?
detaching vs detain
To keep someone in official custody, not to separate.
Practice
Choose the correct sentence:
Choose one answer.
The verb 'detach' is followed by 'from' to show separation. 'To', 'with', and 'on' do not express the idea of separating from a source.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “detaching”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.