What Is Social Distancing? Definition and Tips

Meaning 1：Social distancing (Social Distancing)

Social Distancing 🔊

/ˈsoʊʃəl ˈdɪstənsɪŋ/

Keeping a safe physical space between yourself and other people to help avoid spreading illness.

Social distancing 🔊

➕

/ˈsoʊʃəl ˈdɪstənsɪŋ/

The practice of keeping a safe physical distance from others to reduce the spread of contagious diseases.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'socius' (companion) and 'distare' (stand apart), forming 'social distancing'.

💡 Mnemonic

Think: 'Social distance' = 'Space for safety'.

📖 Example

To keep everyone safe, the library asks visitors to practice social distancing by sitting at every other table. 🔊 For safety, the library requires patrons to maintain social distancing by using alternate seating.

🔗 Collocations

practice social distancing – to implement physical separation in social settings

maintain social distancing – to keep a safe distance from others

social distancing measures – rules or actions to enforce physical spacing

🔄 Synonyms

physical distancing (n.) – The same concept emphasizing physical space rather than social interaction.

spatial separation (n.) – Keeping physical distance between individuals.

🚫 Antonyms

close contact (n.) – Being in close proximity to others, increasing transmission risk.

crowding (n.) – A situation where many people are close together.

🌱 Derivatives

socially distance (v.) – To practice social distancing.

social distancer (n.) – A person who practices social distancing.

📖 Cultural Story

Originating in early 20th-century tuberculosis control, 'social distancing' gained prominence during the 2003 SARS outbreak and became a global public health strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic.