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

Example 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 Venkataraman said the isolation of the COVID pandemic is what really ignited her son's wanderlust. Vanessa Romo, NPR, 10 Oct. 2025 With Hamas facing unprecedented international isolation, its allies either unable or unwilling to help, the group appears set on abiding by the peace agreement. Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 10 Oct. 2025 Kim’s grandfather, Kim Il-Sung, was among the key figures in the WPK’s 1945 founding, and played a role in the decision to invade South Korea in 1950, leading to the northern state’s continuing isolation. Tom Chivers, semafor.com, 9 Oct. 2025 While many governments defended Israel's initial right to respond to the attack, the scale of civilian death and suffering wrought by its war have drawn increasing international condemnation and isolation for the Jewish state. Alexander Smith, NBC news, 9 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for isolation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for isolation
Noun
  • From hidden groves and quiet trails to windswept shores and off-the-beaten paths, these locations were chosen for their ability to offer visitors a true escape — places to unwind and enjoy moments of solitude and peace away from the crowds.
    Laura Daniella Sepulveda, AZCentral.com, 10 Oct. 2025
  • Known for its 33 white sand beaches, travelers from around the world find a mix of peace, solitude, and adventure throughout Anguilla.
    Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The homes aim to overcome barriers found in traditional shelters by allowing for privacy, property, and pets.
    La Risa R. Lynch, jsonline.com, 15 Oct. 2025
  • Schools have a responsibility to ensure safety, privacy, and fairness for all students.
    Grace Tucker, Cincinnati Enquirer, 15 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • In Miller’s portrait, the filmmaker goes through isolation, loneliness, and pain.
    Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 14 Oct. 2025
  • Decades before the internet, Gunness exploited men’s loneliness — luring them to her hog farm with the promise of romance and sending many to a shallow grave beneath the Indiana soil.
    Christina Coulter, PEOPLE, 11 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Isolation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/isolation. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on isolation

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