Reclusion: meaning, definitions and examples

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reclusion

[rɪˈkluːʒən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in legal context

The state of being secluded or isolated from the outside world.

Synonyms

isolation, seclusion, solitude.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
reclusion	Used when someone withdraws from society, often to lead a life of solitary contemplation. It generally implies a voluntary decision to live away from others. After the scandal, he chose reclusion in the mountains to reflect on his life
seclusion	Implies deliberate withdrawal for personal peace, privacy, or safety. It suggests being in a place where one is hidden or removed from disturbances. She enjoyed the seclusion of her garden, where she could read without interruptions
isolation	Refers to the state of being separated from others, which can be voluntary or involuntary. It often indicates a broader sense of being cut off physically or emotionally. The patient's isolation in the hospital room helped prevent the spread of the infection
solitude	Describes a state of being alone without being lonely. It often has a positive connotation, indicating peacefulness and personal reflection. He found solace in solitude, walking along the quiet beach at dawn

Examples of usage

He chose a life of reclusion in the mountains.
The reclusion of the witness was necessary for the safety of the trial.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in psychological context

The act of isolating oneself from society due to mental health reasons.

Synonyms

retreat, seclusion, withdrawal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
reclusion	Reclusion is often used when someone lives in isolation from society for an extended period, usually voluntarily, and it can be related to a lifestyle or a state of being. It implies a purposeful separation and can have a somewhat formal tone. After his wife's death, he lived in reclusion for years. The famous author chose a life of reclusion to focus on his writing.
withdrawal	Withdrawal typically indicates a retreat or pullback from engagement, whether physically, emotionally, or socially. It can often have negative connotations, suggesting reluctance or distress, and may be used in contexts involving addiction or social interaction. His withdrawal from social activities worried his friends. The patient's withdrawal symptoms were challenging to manage.
retreat	Retreat generally refers to a temporary period of withdrawal from everyday activities, often for rest, reflection, or spiritual reasons. It can be both voluntary and scheduled, and usually, there is an intent to return to normal life afterwards. She went to a mountain retreat to find peace and quiet. After the stressful week, he decided to take a retreat to a meditation center.
seclusion	Seclusion often refers to a situation where a person is hidden away and isolated from others. It can also be used when someone is kept away from society, whether by choice or force, and it can have a slightly negative or secretive connotation. The prisoner was held in seclusion for days without contact with anyone. She enjoyed the seclusion of her cottage in the woods.

Examples of usage

His reclusion was a result of his anxiety disorder.
She found comfort in her reclusion during times of stress.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'recludere', meaning 'to shut out' or 'to close off'.
It first appeared in English during the late Middle Ages, emphasizing the idea of isolation.

Psychology

People may choose reclusion for various reasons, including anxiety, introversion, or the need for deep reflection.
Research shows that solitary time can foster creativity, allowing individuals to think without distraction.

Literature

Many famous writers, like Emily Dickinson, embraced reclusion, finding inspiration in their solitude.
The theme of isolation is prevalent in literature, often symbolizing inner struggles or the quest for self-identity.

Culture

In some cultures, reclusion is seen as a path to spiritual enlightenment or personal growth.
Japanese Zen monks often practice reclusion in nature, seeking peace and harmony away from society.

Pop Culture

In movies, reclusive characters often hide due to past trauma, adding depth to their stories.
Songs and poems frequently explore the feelings of loneliness associated with choosing isolation.

Translations

Translations of the word "reclusion" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reclusão

🇮🇳 अलगाव

🇩🇪 Einschluss

🇮🇩 pengasingan

🇺🇦 ув'язнення

🇵🇱 odosobnienie

🇯🇵 幽閉 (ゆうへい)

🇫🇷 réclusion

🇪🇸 reclusión

🇹🇷 haps

🇰🇷 은둔

🇸🇦 عزلة

🇨🇿 odloučení

🇸🇰 odlúčenie

🇨🇳 幽居

🇸🇮 osamitev

🇮🇸 einangrun

🇰🇿 оқшаулану

🇬🇪 მარტოობა

🇦🇿 təcridolma

🇲🇽 reclusión