separate
This term carries a dual nature, functioning as both a descriptor of isolation and an action of division. When used as an adjective, it emphasizes a boundary or a lack of connection, often implying a clean break or a deliberate distinction between two entities to avoid confusion or contamination.
Meanings
Existing or occurring as a distinct entity, not joined or connected to another.
"They slept in separate rooms."
To move or keep two or more things or people apart so that they are no longer together.
"The teacher had to separate the two fighting students."
Examples
The children slept in separate beds.
The legal and financial issues are separate matters.
You should separate the recycling from the general waste.
Police officers arrived quickly to separate the two protesters.
The couple decided to separate after a long period of conflict.
Collocations & Compounds
separate entrance
Noun collocation: a door that allows entry to a building without passing through other areas
The apartment has a separate entrance for the tenants.
separate entity
Noun collocation: an organization or object that exists independently from others
The subsidiary is treated as a separate entity for tax purposes.
separate the wheat from the chaff
Noun collocation: to distinguish between what is valuable and what is worthless
The first round of interviews will separate the wheat from the chaff.
separate the parties
Verb collocation: to physically move two people apart to stop a conflict
Police officers arrived quickly to separate the parties involved in the brawl.
separate the components
Verb collocation: to take apart the individual pieces of a machine or system
You must separate the components before cleaning them with solvent.
Phrasal Verbs
separate out
to isolate a specific part or element from a larger group
The chemist managed to separate out the pure compound from the mixture.
Idioms & Sayings
separate the wheat from the chaff
distinguish between what is valuable and what is worthless
The first round of interviews is designed to separate the wheat from the chaff.
keep separate
to ensure two things do not mix or interact
You should keep the laundry separate to avoid color bleeding.