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

Examples 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 This lunation will whisper from the depths of your privacy, seclusion and mental health sectors. Skyler Caruso, Peoplemag, 1 Aug. 2024 Generously sized bedroom suites are tucked away for privacy and seclusion, accompanied by enormous walk-in closets. Roger Sands, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024 The bipartisan bill would establish a federal interagency work group to improve communication among state licensing and child welfare agencies, and create the first national database of restraints and seclusion in youth treatment centers. Tyler Kingkade, NBC News, 2 Sep. 2024 The party quickly turns from a festive atmosphere to one of fear and seclusion as revolution floods the streets outside, keeping partygoers confined to the hall for three days. Jamie Lang, Variety, 24 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for seclusion 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seclusion
Noun
  • Much of the time, Auerbach was joined and tempered in his solitude by a model.
    Anthony Lane, The New Yorker, 21 Nov. 2024
  • Several generations of the Buendía lineage will mark the future of this mythical town, tormented by madness, impossible loves, a bloody and absurd war, and the fear of a terrible curse that condemns them, without hope, to one hundred years of solitude.
    Dana Feldman, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Escaping the rain, guests made their way down the red lacquered staircase and into the privacy of the Gaux Gaux room, settling into the maximalist animal print and velvet haven and enjoying the endless plates of fries floating past.
    Vogue, Vogue, 22 Nov. 2024
  • Called Flagship Suites, the new product will feature upgrades like privacy doors, wireless charging, Bluetooth capability, multiple storage areas, and a seat with a chaise lounge mode (as well as a standard lie-flat bed option, too).
    Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • When the surgeon general issued a 2023 warning on the epidemic of loneliness and social isolation, one fact stood out: People between the ages of 15-24 spend 70% less time in person with friends than those of the same age did in 2003.
    Katia Riddle, NPR, 30 Nov. 2024
  • On top of it all, the isolation of remote work, despite the benefits and joys of working from home, weighs heavily on many who are experiencing extreme loneliness and dwindling motivation.
    Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 29 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near seclusion

Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on seclusion

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