SOLITUDE Synonyms: 26 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

solitude

noun

ˈsä-lə-ˌtüd

Definition of solitude next

as in privacy

the state of being alone or kept apart from others sought the kind of solitude where his thoughts would be his only companions

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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

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 solitude Some people love the quiet solitude of jogging alone while others prefer the competitive element of team sports like basketball, volleyball or pickleball. —

Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 17 Oct. 2024 But even within the cloisters of the monastery and behind the walls of its garden, with the city outside, there is also a solitude around each of the monks. —

Caroline Kubzansky, Chicago Tribune, 20 Oct. 2024 The rapper and music producer was denied bail the following day after pleading not guilty and will be held in solitude at the Special Housing Unit at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center, CNN reported. —

Hannah Hudnall, USA TODAY, 27 Sep. 2024 This park offers a serene experience for nature lovers who appreciate solitude and natural beauty. —

Judy Koutsky, Forbes, 26 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for solitude