Definitions Related words Phrases Mentions Lyrics History Colors (New!)

Literary notes about Detached (AI summary)

The term “detached” manifests a striking versatility in literature, encapsulating both physical and abstract separations. It can denote a literal disconnection, as when an object is removed from another—illustrated by the simple act of separating a gold cigarette-case from a bracelet [1] or the uncoupling of a train car from its engine [2]. At the same time, “detached” often describes an emotional or conceptual state; a character may be portrayed as intentionally withdrawing from earthly passions to attain a state of reflective aloofness [3], or ideas may be rendered abstract, cut off from their practical contexts [4]. This dual capacity to suggest both a tangible separation and a figurative, contemplative stance enriches its literary usage, deepening both narrative detail and thematic complexity.
  1. " She detached a small gold cigarette-case from one of her bracelets, held it out to him, and took a cigarette herself.
    — from The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
  2. The train, now detached from the engine, remained a little behind, whilst the locomotive rushed forward with increased speed.
    — from Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne
  3. One by one she had detached herself from the baser possibilities, and she saw that nothing now remained to her but the emptiness of renunciation.
    — from The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton
  4. But "general" also means "abstract," or detached from all specific context.
    — from Democracy and Education: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Education by John Dewey

More usage examples

Also see: Google, News, Images, Wikipedia, Reddit, BlueSky


Home   Reverse Dictionary / Thesaurus   Datamuse   Word games   Spruce   Feedback   Dark mode   Random word   Help


Color thesaurus

Use OneLook to find colors for words and words for colors

See an example

Literary notes

Use OneLook to learn how words are used by great writers

See an example

Word games

Try our innovative vocabulary games

Play Now

Read the latest OneLook newsletter issue: Threepeat Redux