Understand that 'once removed' indicates a one-generation gap between relatives, not distance or affection.

Generation Gap

'Once removed' is used for family relations, not to describe friendships or acquaintances.

Not for Friends

Direct parent-child relationships aren't described as 'once removed'; it starts with cousins, uncles, and aunts.

When not about family, 'once removed' suggests an indirect link to a concept or state of being.

Used metaphorically, it can express emotional detachment or a step back from personal involvement.

It describes conceptual, not physical distance. People once removed can be physically close.