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
  • This is a time for introspection and self-care, so make sure to carve out space for solitude and inner wisdom to come through.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Nov. 2024
  • Delicious solitude & deep breaths. Describe your sound/aesthetic in three words.. Eclectic, vibrant, melodic.
    Amanda Peukert, SPIN, 1 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • The filing also details ongoing litigation and regulatory matters, including the impact of evolving privacy and data protection laws on Axon's operations.
    Quartz Bot, Quartz, 8 Nov. 2024
  • The Best Litter Box Enclosure Photograph: Wayfair Archie & Oscar Rena Litter Box Enclosure $120 at Wayfair Putting a litter box inside a piece of furniture meant to conceal it can give your cats some privacy, conceal odors, and hide little turds from your guests.
    Medea Giordano, WIRED, 5 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • As part of these tactics, China has levied tariffs and embargoes on Taiwanese exports, sought to increase Taiwan’s international isolation, and employed disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks meant to destabilize its people and government.
    David Sacks, Foreign Affairs, 8 Nov. 2024
  • The message was clear: more shiny tools that worked in isolation weren’t viable or sustainable long-term.
    Forbes, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near seclusion

Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on seclusion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!