Distantly

In a manner that is remote in space, time, or relation; signifying a lack of closeness, intimacy, or immediate involvement. It implies a degree of separation, whether physical, emotional, or intellectual. The term can describe a physical distance, an emotional detachment, an obscure ancestral link, or a subtle hint that is barely perceptible. It suggests a connection existing, but one that is weakened or indirect, allowing for a lack of deep understanding or close personal connection. The word often suggests a subtle observation or knowledge of something without necessarily having active participation or immediate influence. Furthermore, it can imply a level of social or societal disconnection from current events and norms.

Distantly meaning with examples

• She remembered her grandmother distantly, recalling only fragmented stories and a faded photograph from her childhood. The tales were not her own memories. The woman seemed almost a legend. It was a connection that existed in her mind, a link to her ancestry, but not a palpable closeness or feeling of real familiarity.
• The village lay distantly on the horizon, a collection of rooftops shimmering in the heat. It appeared too far away, too inaccessible. They knew it was there and they were connected by the same landscape. There was no viable hope or immediate need to bridge the physical distance, to forge immediate interaction.
• He regarded the scandal distantly, reading news reports with a detached curiosity, without personal investment. He acknowledged the drama, understanding the basic facts, but he felt no moral outrage, no sense of personal connection, or investment in the unfolding events. He could remove himself with apparent ease.
• The politician responded distantly to questions about his recent gaffe, offering only vague, non-committal answers. His responses were vague, he wanted no immediate association to it. He refused to directly address the issue, choosing to maintain an emotional distance to the scandal, avoiding the consequences.