What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
distal
Example
The distal end of the femur connects to the knee joint. [distal: adjective]
Example
The distal portion of the small intestine is responsible for nutrient absorption. [distal: adjective]
distant
Example
The mountain range was visible in the distant horizon. [distant: adjective]
Example
Although they were related, they had a distant relationship and rarely spoke. [distant: adjective]
Example
In the distant future, humans may colonize other planets. [distant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Distant is more commonly used than distal in everyday language due to its versatility and wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between distal and distant?
Distal is more formal and technical, while distant is more commonly used in informal and everyday language.
