Loneliness: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is used to describe a state of feeling sad due to being alone or without friends or company. It often has a negative connotation.

• After moving to a new city, she experienced intense loneliness.
• He couldn't shake the loneliness that followed him everywhere.

This word refers to the state of being separated from others, which can sometimes be voluntary or involuntary. It can have both a neutral and negative connotation depending on the context.

• Due to the pandemic, many people experienced isolation from their loved ones.
• The prisoner was kept in isolation for several days.

Solitude is the state of being alone, but without the negative feelings associated with loneliness. It often implies a chosen or peaceful separation from others.

• She cherished the solitude of the early morning hours.
• He found solace in the solitude of his garden.

Seclusion implies being hidden away or kept apart from others, often for the sake of privacy or peace. It generally has a neutral or positive connotation.

• The writer moved to a small cabin in the mountains to enjoy some seclusion.
• After the scandal, the celebrity retreated into seclusion.

Loneliness is a feeling of sadness or distress about being alone, often associated with a lack of connection with others. It typically has a negative connotation and is related to emotional pain because of being alone.

• She felt a deep sense of loneliness after moving to a new city where she didn't know anyone

Isolation refers to the state of being separated from others, either physically or emotionally. It can be voluntary or involuntary and does not always carry a negative connotation, although it often does when it involves being cut off from social interaction.

• The isolation of the remote village made it difficult for residents to get access to healthcare

Solitude is the state of being alone without being lonely. It often implies a positive, deliberate choice to be alone for reflection, peace, or creativity.

• He found solace and clarity during his times of solitude, away from the noise of daily life

Seclusion means being set apart from others, often by choice, and usually suggests a peaceful or quiet state. It is less negative compared to loneliness and can denote a positive aspect of being away from the hustle and bustle.

• The writer enjoyed the seclusion of her cabin in the woods, where she could work without distractions