Synonym Chooser

How is the word solitude distinct from other similar nouns?

The words isolation and seclusion are common synonyms of solitude. While all three words mean "the state of one who is alone," 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

When is it sensible to use isolation instead of solitude?

The words isolation and solitude are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, isolation stresses detachment from others often involuntarily.

the isolation of the village in winter

When can seclusion be used instead of solitude?

The words seclusion and solitude can be used in similar contexts, 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

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 solitude The shaded and sheltered areas allow guests to relax in groups, but there are also quiet zones for solitude. Julia Zaltzman, Robb Report, 30 Apr. 2025 From lively celebrations and unique entertainment to the quiet solitude of a cabin away from home, here’s what to expect on a Christmas cruise this year. David Nikel, Forbes.com, 12 Apr. 2025 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 See All Example Sentences for solitude
Recent Examples of Synonyms for solitude
Noun
  • This question asks for personal sensitive information that is protected by privacy laws.
    Ernesto Londoño, New York Times, 18 May 2025
  • Financial services aside the adoption of AI in healthcare, education, and entertainment will create complications from financial, intellectual property, and privacy perspectives.
    Sean Stein Smith, Forbes.com, 17 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

“Solitude.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/solitude. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on solitude

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