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

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 seclusion Martin Agran, a University of Wyoming professor who focuses on special education, said the research shows that there’s an overuse of restraint and seclusion. IndyStar, 8 Sep. 2025 July’s Swag rebuffed months of speculation about the artist’s mental well-being with admissions of imperfections and odes to romantic seclusion. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 5 Sep. 2025 The band recorded the final tracks live in a communal setting to contrast the initial feelings of seclusion. Audrey Gibbs, Nashville Tennessean, 4 Sep. 2025 But peace and sometimes, a sense of total seclusion, add to its charms. Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Southern Living, 30 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for seclusion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seclusion
Noun
  • Gone is the Monster’s sophisticated consciousness, his months spent in solitude, his intimate revenge plot.
    Rory Doherty, Vulture, 20 Oct. 2025
  • What begins as an act of solitude unfolds into an unexpected encounter with both people and places gradually evolving into a quiet yet intense philosophical exchange that unearths themes of displacement, trauma and renewal.
    Leo Barraclough, Variety, 20 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
  • Silence about abuse reinforces shame and isolation.
    Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 19 Oct. 2025
  • Addressing the isolation of young people has become an urgent priority in eastern Ukraine.
    Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 19 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on seclusion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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