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.
彼とはここ数年で疎遠になってしまった。
I've become estranged from him over the past few years.
両親と疎遠になっている。
I'm estranged from my parents.
The noun form meaning 'estrangement' or 'alienation.' Often used with だ/です to describe the state.
彼とはもう長い間疎遠だ。
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.
今はお互いに距離を置いている。
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.
彼は家族と絶縁した。
He cut off all ties with his family.
To describe a married couple living apart without legally ending the marriage.
The standard term for a married couple living separately. It does not necessarily imply emotional estrangement, but is the closest equivalent.
彼らは別居しているが、離婚はしていない。
They are separated but not divorced.
The noun form meaning 'separation' (of a married couple).
別居中の夫
estranged husband
To describe feeling disconnected or isolated from a larger community or social environment.
Means 'to feel alienated.' 疎外感 is the feeling of being left out or not belonging.
新しい職場で疎外感を感じている。
I feel alienated at my new workplace.
The noun meaning 'alienation' in a social or philosophical sense.
社会からの疎外
alienation from society
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.
兄とは疎遠だが、妻とは別居中だ。
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.