English Reference
adjective

detached

adj.
US /diˈtætʃt/ UK /dɪtˈætʃt/ de·tached

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    not joined to something else; separated or removed.

    physically separated or disconnected from a larger unit or structure.

    Simple

    The garage is detached from the main house, so you have to walk outside to reach it.

    In context

    The investigation revealed that a detached cable was the primary cause of the sudden power failure across the industrial park.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate British English

    a house that does not share any walls with another house.

    denoting a house that stands alone and is not joined to another building on either side.

    Simple

    They are looking for a detached house with a large garden for their children.

    In context

    In many suburban developments, a fully detached property commands a significantly higher market price than its semi-detached counterparts.

    standalonesingle family
    terracedsemi detached
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    showing no emotional involvement or bias; staying objective.

    characterised by a lack of emotional involvement or personal bias; maintaining an objective or impersonal distance.

    Simple

    A judge must remain detached and fair when listening to both sides of a case.

    In context

    The journalist maintained a detached perspective throughout the conflict, reporting the facts without succumbing to the intense emotions of the local population.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated