Synonyms of isolation

isolation

noun

ˌī-sə-ˈlā-shən 

as in solitude

the state of being alone or kept apart from others

after the long book tour, the author looked forward to the isolation of his office

Synonyms & Similar Words

• solitude
• privacy
• loneliness
• segregation
• seclusion
• aloneness
• separateness
• insulation
• solitariness
• sequestration
• confinement
• secludedness
• internment
• vacuum
• retirement
• quarantine
• withdrawal
• lonesomeness
• incarceration
• ghettoization

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• society
• company
• companionship
• fellowship
• camaraderie
• comradeship

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

Recent Examples of isolation

Allen is being held in a restrictive cell in medical isolation, which is standard protocol, the law enforcement source said. —Cara Tabachnick, CBS News, 30 Apr. 2026

Being seen, heard, and supported by others can reduce feelings of isolation, ease anxiety and depression, and help people navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience. —Care Resource, Miami Herald, 30 Apr. 2026

Systems checked under real conditions Unlike equipment testing in isolation, sea trials involve observing the performance of equipment when functioning as a unit. —Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 29 Apr. 2026

Officials said that because of his transient lifestyle and social isolation, Valente did not have family or peers to report warning signs to authorities. —Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026