Is 'action at a distance' real?

In physics, it is a well-established concept. While classical forces like gravity were once thought to involve it, modern field theories (e.g., general relativity) describe forces via fields. However, quantum entanglement exhibits non-local correlations sometimes called 'action at a distance'.

Can I use 'action at a distance' in everyday English?

It is highly technical. In everyday language, phrases like 'remote influence' or 'indirect effect' are more natural and understandable.

What did Einstein mean by 'spooky action at a distance'?

Einstein used this phrase to express his discomfort with quantum entanglement, where particles affect each other's states instantaneously over large distances, which seemed to violate locality principles.

Is 'action at a distance' the same as telekinesis?

No. 'Action at a distance' is a scientific term for physical forces. Telekinesis is a purported psychic ability and is not recognised by mainstream science.

action at a distance

UK/ˈæk.ʃən æt ə ˈdɪs.təns/US/ˈæk.ʃən æt ə ˈdɪs.təns/

Formal, Technical, Scientific

My Flashcards

Definition

Meaning

A phenomenon where one object affects another without any apparent physical connection or contact between them.

A principle or concept in physics describing forces (like gravity or magnetism) that act between separated objects. Metaphorically used in other fields to describe influence or causation without direct contact.

Linguistics

Semantic Notes

Primarily a scientific term with a precise technical meaning. Its metaphorical use implies mysterious, inexplicable, or non-local influence.

Dialectal Variation

British vs American Usage

Differences

No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling of related terms follows regional conventions (e.g., 'gravitation' vs. 'gravity' emphasis).

Connotations

Identical technical connotations. In popular usage, may carry a slight connotation of the supernatural or 'spooky' (from Einstein's phrase 'spooky action at a distance').

Frequency

Equally low-frequency in both dialects, confined to scientific and philosophical discourse.

Vocabulary

Collocations

strong

instantaneous action at a distancenon-local action at a distanceprinciple of action at a distancespooky action at a distance

medium

explain action at a distanceinvolve action at a distancereject action at a distanceaction at a distance in quantum mechanics

weak

apparent action at a distanceclassical action at a distancemysterious action at a distance

Grammar

Valency Patterns

The [phenomenon] is a classic example of action at a distance.[Subject] believed in/rejected the concept of action at a distance.How can we reconcile [theory] with action at a distance?

Vocabulary

Synonyms

Strong

non-locality (in physics)

Neutral

non-local interactionremote influence

Weak

field effectforce at a distance

Vocabulary

Antonyms

contact actionlocal interactiondirect contactmechanical contact

Phrases

Idioms & Phrases

“Spooky action at a distance (Einstein's phrase for quantum entanglement)”

Usage

Context Usage

Business

Rarely used; metaphorically for market influences from afar, e.g., 'The CEO's decisions had an action-at-a-distance effect on overseas branches.'

Academic

Common in physics, philosophy of science, and history of science papers discussing Newtonian gravity, electromagnetism, or quantum theory.

Everyday

Virtually never used in casual conversation.

Technical

Core term in theoretical physics, especially in discussions of classical field theories vs. quantum entanglement.

Examples

By Part of Speech

adjective

British English

The action-at-a-distance hypothesis was controversial.
They studied action-at-a-distance effects.

American English

The action-at-a-distance hypothesis was controversial.
They studied action-at-a-distance effects.

Examples

By CEFR Level

Magnets show action at a distance.

Newton's theory of gravity was criticised for implying action at a distance.
The concept of action at a distance puzzles many students of physics.

Quantum entanglement is often described as a form of instantaneous action at a distance, challenging classical intuitions.
The philosopher argued against the plausibility of action at a distance in mechanical philosophies.

Learning

Memory Aids

Mnemonic

Imagine a magnet making a paperclip jump from across the table—no touching, just ACTION AT A DISTANCE.

Conceptual Metaphor

INFLUENCE IS A FORCE TRAVELLING THROUGH SPACE (even if invisibly).

Watch out

Common Pitfalls

Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)

Do not translate literally as 'действие на дистанции'. The standard physics term is 'дальнодействие'.
Avoid confusing it with 'remote control' ('дистанционное управление').

Common Mistakes

Using it as a verb (e.g., 'It actions at a distance'). It is a noun phrase only.
Omitting the articles: 'action at distance' is incorrect.

Practice

Quiz

Fill in the gap

Newtonian gravity is a classic example of , as the Sun pulls the Earth without direct contact.

Multiple Choice

In which field is the term 'action at a distance' most precisely defined?

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

: In physics, it is a well-established concept. While classical forces like gravity were once thought to involve it, modern field theories (e.g., general relativity) describe forces via fields. However, quantum entanglement exhibits non-local correlations sometimes called 'action at a distance'.
: It is highly technical. In everyday language, phrases like 'remote influence' or 'indirect effect' are more natural and understandable.
: Einstein used this phrase to express his discomfort with quantum entanglement, where particles affect each other's states instantaneously over large distances, which seemed to violate locality principles.
: No. 'Action at a distance' is a scientific term for physical forces. Telekinesis is a purported psychic ability and is not recognised by mainstream science.