Ostracism: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is deliberately excluded from a group or society, often as a form of punishment. This term is formal and commonly found in academic or serious discussions.

• The community's ostracism led him to move to another town.
• Her controversial views caused her ostracism from the scientific community.

Applied in situations where someone is intentionally left out or not allowed to participate. It can range from formal settings, like school or work, to informal social situations.

• The club's exclusion of women sparked outrage.
• His constant exclusion from group activities made him feel unwanted.

Used to describe a state where an individual is physically or emotionally separated from others. This can be voluntary or involuntary and usually indicates a broader and more severe form of separation.

• After the scandal, he lived in isolation for years.
• The pandemic caused a lot of people to experience isolation.

Implied when someone is deliberately avoided or ignored, usually as a form of social punishment. Tends to have a more personal and emotional connotation.

• She experienced shunning from her peers after the incident.
• His actions led to his shunning by the entire community.