What is the difference between "Married, spouse absent" and "Separated" in the MARST variable

What is the difference between “Married, spouse absent” and “Separated” in the MARST variable

People reported as separated included those with legal separations, those living apart with intentions of obtaining a divorce, and other people permanently or temporarily separated because of marital discord. The group “other married, spouse absent” includes married people living apart because either the husband or wife was employed and living at a considerable distance from home, was serving away from home in the Armed Forces, had moved to another area, or had a different place of residence for any other reason except separation as defined above.

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