Synonym Chooser

How is the word isolation distinct from other similar nouns?

The words seclusion and solitude are common synonyms of isolation. While all three words mean "the state of one who is alone," isolation stresses detachment from others often involuntarily.

the isolation of the village in winter

In what contexts can seclusion take the place of isolation?

The synonyms seclusion and isolation are sometimes interchangeable, but seclusion suggests a shutting away or keeping apart from others often connoting deliberate withdrawal from the world or retirement to a quiet life.

lived in pastoral seclusion

When might solitude be a better fit than isolation?

While the synonyms solitude and isolation are close in meaning, solitude may imply a condition of being apart from all human beings or of being cut off by wish or circumstances from one's usual associates.

a few quiet hours of solitude

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of isolation The timing, days before the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, signals a unified front against Western policies, particularly as both nations contend with sanctions and international isolation. Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 17 Jan. 2025 But Israel also needs European states for political backing and trade relations to limit its international isolation. Greg Myre, NPR, 16 Jan. 2025 And by allowing his envoy Steven Witkoff to coordinate with the Biden administration, the incoming president left Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with an acute sense of isolation. Franklin Foer, The Atlantic, 15 Jan. 2025 Mirroring Emilia’s own sense of isolation, Gascón spent the months-long shoot in self-exile, declining invitations to socialize with the cast and crew, including one outing to a Beyoncé concert. Julian Sancton, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for isolation 

Thesaurus Entries Near isolation

Cite this Entry

“Isolation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/isolation. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on isolation

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