separate out

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Explanation of "Separate Out"

Definition:
"Separate out" is a phrasal verb that means to take something away from a group or mix, often to remove unwanted parts or to identify specific elements. It can refer to filtering or choosing certain items based on specific criteria.

Usage Instructions:

• The phrase is usually used when talking about dividing things into different parts or removing unwanted items from a mixture.
• It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Example Sentence:

• "In the science lab, we need to separate out the impurities from the water by using a filter."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "separate out" can refer to complex processes, such as in scientific research or data analysis, where specific elements are extracted from larger sets for detailed examination.

Word Variants:

• Separate (verb): To divide or keep apart.
• Separation (noun): The act of separating.
• Separately (adverb): Apart from others; individually.

Different Meanings:

While "separate out" primarily means to remove something from a group, it can also imply categorizing or distinguishing between different elements based on specific characteristics.

Synonyms:

• Filter out
• Distinguish
• Divide
• Isolate
• Extract

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Filter out: To remove unwanted items from a mix, similar to "separate out."
• Break down: To divide something into smaller parts for easier understanding.
• Sort out: To organize or arrange items into categories.

Summary:

"Separate out" is a useful term in English that describes the action of removing or distinguishing specific items from a larger group.

Academic

Verb

1. remove by passing through a filter
   • filter out the impurities

Synonyms

• filter
• filtrate
• strain
• filter out