expression, godan verb (-ru)
keep one's distance; distance oneself; maintain a distance
Used for physical or emotional distancing. Often implies a deliberate effort to avoid closeness or involvement. Cross-referenced with 距離を置く, which is a near-synonym.
See also: 距離を置く
彼は最近、私と距離を取っているように感じる。
I feel like he's been keeping his distance from me lately.
危険を感じたら、すぐに相手と距離を取ってください。
If you sense danger, please distance yourself from the other person immediately.