Use it to describe scenes or views that extend far away from the observer. She gazed into the distance, where the sea met the sky.
Pro Tip 2/3
Abstract Notion
It can symbolize a distant goal or something unreachable at the moment. His dreams lay in the distance, but he was determined to achieve them.
Pro Tip 3/3
Emotional State
May imply a character is lost in thought, reflection, or feeling distant emotionally. After the news, she just stared into the distance, disconnected from everyone.