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 Under the bill, the California Department of Social Services would be required to publish data on its website about every incident in which seclusion or restraint is used, searchable by anyone. Tribune News Service, Boston Herald, 29 Aug. 2024 Through flood, earthquake, and subsidence, the Goose was coddled like a pedigree bird at a cost of US$1 million a year until Hughes died in 1976 after years of decline into Las Vegas penthouse seclusion and bizarre eccentricity. David Szondy, New Atlas, 25 Dec. 2024 As the Maldives becomes busier and more accessible, the Seychelles is increasingly appealing to those in-the-know who seek sun and seclusion. Nina-Sophia Miralles, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024 In Los Angeles, privacy is paramount, and the Riviera neighborhood in Pacific Palisades is sought after for its ample parcels, easy access to nature and absolute seclusion. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 16 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for seclusion 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seclusion
Noun
  • California Altadena had soul, solitude and community.
    Nathan Solis, Los Angeles Times, 17 Jan. 2025
  • The pandemic certainly contributed to running’s rise in popularity, as the only sport activity that, practiced in solitude, was billed as safe.
    Martino Carrera, WWD, 14 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Then on Thursday, Baldoni filed a $400 million federal lawsuit against Lively and Reynolds, as well as Lively’s publicist Leslie Sloane, accusing the trio of multiple offenses, including defamation, civil extortion, invasion of privacy and interference with contractual relations.
    Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 18 Jan. 2025
  • For more privacy and space, a bedroom with an in-room restroom and shower, can also be booked.
    Christin Parcerisa Vigueras, Travel + Leisure, 18 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Mirroring Emilia’s own sense of isolation, Gascón spent the months-long shoot in self-exile, declining invitations to socialize with the cast and crew, including one outing to a Beyoncé concert.
    Julian Sancton, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 Jan. 2025
  • For example, isolation and detachment from other people were more pronounced during the lockdown phase of the pandemic.
    Anju Goel, Verywell Health, 10 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near seclusion

Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on seclusion

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