Translation guide
Describes a relationship where people have become distant or separated, often after once being close. The most common Japanese expressions focus on the state of being apart or the feeling of emotional distance.
To describe a relationship that has grown cold or distant, often due to a rift or lack of communication.
The most common and natural way to say 'become estranged.' It implies a gradual drifting apart and is used for family, friends, or acquaintances.
I've become estranged from him over the past few years.
I'm estranged from my parents.
The noun form meaning 'estrangement' or 'alienation.' Often used with だ/です to describe the state.
I've been estranged from him for a long time.
Literally 'to put distance,' this implies a deliberate choice to create emotional or physical distance, often temporarily.
We're keeping our distance from each other right now.
A strong, formal term meaning to sever ties completely, often used for disowning a family member or cutting off all contact.
He cut off all ties with his family.
To describe a married couple living apart without legally ending the marriage.
To describe feeling disconnected or isolated from a larger community or social environment.
疎遠 (soen) is about emotional distance and can apply to any relationship. 別居 (bekkyo) specifically refers to married couples living apart. Use 疎遠 for friends/family, 別居 for spouses.
I'm estranged from my brother, but separated from my wife.
疎遠 implies a long-term or permanent state. For temporary breaks, use 距離を置く (kyori o oku) instead.
estranged husband
alienation from society