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 Sited just a short drive from Duxbury Beach and the charming village center, this property offers the perfect balance of seclusion and accessibility. Miriam Schwartz, Boston Herald, 16 Jan. 2025 But in Kingham, a small town with fewer than 1,000 people, Bake Off found a hidden gem that has retained its seclusion and anonymity. Sezin Devi Koehler, EW.com, 16 Jan. 2025 These lodges offer gourmet meals in stunning settings, private gorilla trekking excursions with expert guides and remote locations, which ensure an intimate experience for those seeking seclusion. Harriet Akinyi, CNBC, 19 Dec. 2024 The audit recommends that the education department develop a review process to ensure seclusion and restraint policies align with state law. Nolan McKendry | The Center Square, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 16 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for seclusion 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seclusion
Noun
  • Having the chance to witness one of their favorite artists in the flesh and not just through intense moments of solitude must have been especially poignant.
    Britt Julious, Chicago Tribune, 7 Feb. 2025
  • The quiet solitude of having a whole mountain to yourself is truly an unmatched experience — not to mention getting first tracks all day long.
    Kale Williams, Axios, 7 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Over the years, multiple officials have raised concerns, with most saying there was no obvious need for a CBDC and citing concerns over privacy and other issues.
    Jeff Cox, CNBC, 11 Feb. 2025
  • Their access has raised concerns about privacy, data security and whether some payments could be cut off.
    Zac Anderson, USA TODAY, 11 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • As an aging woman in a society that tends to overlook the elderly, her sense of isolation and her resilience in overcoming it resonated with me deeply.
    Kevin Cassidy, The Hollywood Reporter, 16 Feb. 2025
  • But so he’s been pickled in loneliness and insecurity and isolation and has become this terrible, worst version of himself.
    Chris Willman, Variety, 15 Feb. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near seclusion

Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on seclusion

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