remote
rih-MOHT
/rɪˈmoʊt/
Situated far away in space; conducted from a distance without physical presence.
Emphasizes geographic distance and separation from a physical hub or campus.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'remotus', past participle of 'removeri' meaning 'to remove or move back'. It denoted far-off places for centuries before applying to distant computer terminals.
Word relationships
- distant: Focuses purely on physical mileage rather than organizational connectivity.
- off-site: Used primarily in corporate settings for work done away from main premises.
- on-site: Physically present at the primary location.
Commonly confused with
- virtual: Remote specifies geographical separation, while virtual specifies software simulation.
Word family
- remotely (adverb): From a distance
- remoteness (noun): The state of being distant
Collocations
- remote instruction
- remote worker
- remote campus
Idioms & expressions
- remote chance
Example sentences
- "The university transitioned to remote instruction during the severe winter storms." Education Policy
Memory hook
RE + MOTE = Removed from the location. Removed by distance.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'virtual', which refers to simulated environments rather than physical distance.
Fun facts
- The television 'remote control' was originally called the 'Lazy Bone' when invented in 1950.
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