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 Les Isles des Saintes, Guadalupe This little group of nine islands, Les Isles de Saintes, offers an array of not so well known anchorages with varying degrees of seclusion. Kathleen Turner, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024 While maintaining a sense of exclusivity and tranquility, the center remains within easy reach of Colombo’s conveniences, offering a perfect balance between seclusion and accessibility. Kara Markley Sterling, USA Today, 26 Mar. 2025 The audit also found widespread issues with school systems’ seclusion and restraint policies. Nolan McKendry | The Center Square, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 16 Dec. 2024 The thick stands of trees flanking long sections provide the illusion of seclusion even when the path passes near neighborhoods. Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Southern Living, 29 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for seclusion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seclusion
Noun
  • In a viral TikTok video, an orange cat's long, boring days of solitude are suddenly replaced with endless joy and play with the arrival of a new little sibling, and internet users can't cope with their special bond.
    Maria Azzurra Volpe, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 May 2025
  • Many had grown accustomed to the solitude of death row, its stale smell and the frequent rants from inmates in mental health crisis.
    Hannah Wiley, Los Angeles Times, 1 May 2025
Noun
  • With a dedicated concierge handling every detail, from five-star accommodations to experiences and custom travel essentials, Flexjet ensures your Mom will enjoy seamless comfort, privacy, and unforgettable adventures.
    Martie Bowser, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025
  • Fusco says that dating apps are more or less a waste of time, because of the lack of privacy.
    Alex Abad-Santos, Vox, 3 May 2025
Noun
  • The spatial isolation of these colonies would aid humanity’s survival, argues Dr Gee, by allowing genetically distinct human communities to develop that could interbreed with people still living on Earth or elsewhere in space to produce offspring with the best qualities of both groups.
    GrrlScientist, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025
  • Read: The isolation of intensive parenting Others aren’t as eager to embrace external influences, especially not so close to home.
    Rhaina Cohen, The Atlantic, 11 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 18 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on seclusion

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