SOLITUDE Synonyms: 26 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'solitude' distinct from other similar nouns?

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

Q: When is it sensible to use 'isolation' instead of 'solitude'?

The words isolation and solitude are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, isolation stresses detachment from others often involuntarily. // the isolation of the village in winter

Q: When can 'seclusion' be used instead of 'solitude'?

The words seclusion and solitude can be used in similar contexts, 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

solitude

noun

ˈsä-lə-ˌtüd

Definition of solitude next

as in privacy

the state of being alone or kept apart from others sought the kind of solitude where his thoughts would be his only companions

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How is the word solitude distinct from other similar nouns?

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

When is it sensible to use isolation instead of solitude?

The words isolation and solitude are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, isolation stresses detachment from others often involuntarily.

the isolation of the village in winter

When can seclusion be used instead of solitude?

The words seclusion and solitude can be used in similar contexts, 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

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 solitude Consider spending some time in solitude or meditative practices to tune into your inner wisdom, whether that’s journaling, therapy or perhaps even artistic expression. —

Valerie Mesa, People.com, 6 Dec. 2024 Picture show Brian Mann/NPR New York City — often known as the city that never sleeps — can also be a place of solitude. —

Brittney Melton, NPR, 5 Dec. 2024 At the top, enjoy sweeping views and the chattering of chipmunks amid the solitude of this trail deep in the woods. —

Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 5 Dec. 2024 Even more impressive is the extent to which Netflix’s Solitude tells a dynamic story without oversimplifying García Márquez’s grand themes: politics, religion, autonomy, love, civilization and its endless parade of discontents, and of course the scourge of solitude in all its many manifestations. —

Judy Berman, TIME, 2 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for solitude