距离

• Pinyin: jù lí
• Hanzi breakdown: 距 = 足 (foot) + 巨 (large) — the span of steps; 离 = 禽 simplified — a bird leaving, suggesting separation

Meaning

Distance; to be apart from. Used as a noun for the space between two points or as a verb meaning to be a certain distance from somewhere.

As a noun, 距离 refers to the physical or abstract gap between two things. As a verb (or preposition-like structure), it is used in the pattern 距离……还有……, meaning 'it is still … away from …'. Also used figuratively for emotional or social distance.

Examples

1. 从这里到车站的距离大概是两公里。 The distance from here to the station is about two kilometres.
2. 距离考试还有三天，我得抓紧复习。 There are still three days until the exam — I need to step up my revision.
3. 我们之间的距离越来越远了。 The distance between us has grown further and further.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, travel, spatial description

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 两地之间的距离并不远。(The distance between the two places is not far.)
• 距离目标还差一点点。(We're just a little short of the goal.)

Don't Say

• 距离他很好 (Don't use 距离 to describe someone's quality — 距离 only describes spatial or temporal gaps, not personal attributes)

Origin & History

A compound of 距 (to be apart from, related to 足 foot — the distance one's feet cover) and 离 (to separate; to be away from), together expressing the concept of measured separation.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal