Synonym Chooser

How is the word seclusion distinct from other similar nouns?

The words isolation and solitude are common synonyms of seclusion. While all three words mean "the state of one who is alone," 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

Where would isolation be a reasonable alternative to seclusion?

The synonyms isolation and seclusion are sometimes interchangeable, but isolation stresses detachment from others often involuntarily.

the isolation of the village in winter

When would solitude be a good substitute for seclusion?

The words solitude and seclusion are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 seclusion Back in the ordinary world of UHNW wealth, security, privacy, seclusion and escape are the priority search terms. Nielsen Dinwoodie, Forbes, 19 Oct. 2024 Escape to the Beachfront Gazebo for the ultimate in seclusion and luxury. Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 14 Oct. 2024 For those seeking true desert-island seclusion, the Royal Davui Island Resort is a minuscule adults-only retreat in the glorious Yasawas island chain that keeps a limit at 32 guests for its bungalows and villas with open-air showers, sleeping pavilions and private plunge pools. David Hochman, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024 Guests of the hotel can relish the seclusion of their private infinity pools and outdoor baths or venture to the vibrant waterfront lounge for a drink and a swim. Eliseé Browchuk, Vogue, 5 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for seclusion 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seclusion
Noun
  • To get an even bigger taste of solitude, plan a trip during the winter, which is considered to be the park's offseason.
    Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 18 Dec. 2024
  • Bottlenose Dolphins ‘Smile’ During Playful Interactions Bottlenose dolphins are happy to engage in these many forms of play, either in solitude or with others.
    Scott Travers, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • However, the legislation, aimed at empowering local law enforcement to track and potentially neutralize unidentified drones, was opposed by Republican Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky, citing concerns over privacy.
    Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 19 Dec. 2024
  • But Street View has also raised alarm bells from privacy and security activists.
    Mack DeGeurin, Popular Science, 19 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • This makes humans vulnerable to being manipulated by machines that prey on the human need for social connection in a time of chronic loneliness and isolation.
    Kate Crawford, WIRED, 23 Dec. 2024
  • Encourage Team-Building Activities Working remotely can increase feelings of loneliness and isolation.
    Caroline Castrillon, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near seclusion

Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on seclusion

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