# distantly

/dˈɪstəntli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/distantly
Updated: 2026-10-13

## Definition

far away, or not closely connected. You use it for people, places, or memories that feel separate from you.

For teachers: at or from a considerable distance in space, time, or relationship; often indicating weak connection or low degree of resemblance.

## Examples

- They are distantly related through their grandmothers.
- After moving abroad, she still follows family news but feels distantly connected to daily life at home.
- The church bells sounded distantly across the valley, softened by fog and barely reaching the walkers on the ridge.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the adjective or participle it modifies, as in 'distantly related'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.