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 They are actively reinforced by the country’s ongoing experience of international sanctions and economic isolation. Sanam Vakil, Time, 26 June 2025 Too much isolation can lead someone askew—ask the Unabomber—but this kind of solitary contemplation offers a retreat from social pressures. Jeremy Gordon, The Atlantic, 24 June 2025 Chronic pain of this nature often leads to depression, anxiety, social isolation and a deep sense of helplessness. Siddhesh Sabnis, The Conversation, 23 June 2025 Headspace extraction allows for the analysis and isolation of specific molecules so they can be dialled up or down accordingly. Stephanie Hirschmiller, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for isolation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for isolation
Noun
  • Taking place 11 months after the events of the original game, Sam and his daughter Lou have fled to Mexico to try to live a life of solitude and flee the commanding grip of the United Colonies of America (UCA).
    Hayes Madsen, Rolling Stone, 23 June 2025
  • But the land isn’t burdened by a conservation easement, so the next owner can choose whether to build, conserve, or simply enjoy a very scenic version of solitude.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 17 June 2025
Noun
  • Additionally, privacy, data security and intellectual property concerns must be addressed when handling sensitive or unpublished research material.
    Beth Worthy, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
  • The seed phrase, or otherwise called the key phrase, is saved and kept only on your device, thus maintaining security and privacy for its users.
    Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 23 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Isolation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/isolation. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on isolation

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