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Word

isolation

noun C1
/ˌaɪsəˈleɪʃən/

Meanings

noun

the state of being alone or separated from other people, often with limited contact

isolation: the state of being alone or separated from other people, often with limited contact
noun

the act or situation of keeping someone or something apart from others to prevent contact or influence

isolation: the act or situation of keeping someone or something apart from others to prevent contact or influence
noun

separation that makes a place or group feel remote or cut off from the rest of the world

isolation: separation that makes a place or group feel remote or cut off from the rest of the world

Definition

Isolation is the state of being separated from others or kept apart from a group.

Isolation means being apart from other people, places, or things. It can describe a feeling of being alone, or a situation where someone or something is deliberately separated. It is often used when separation affects communication, support, or connection. The word can also refer to the act of separating something to prevent contact or interference.

Examples

  • After moving to a new city, I struggled with isolation until I joined a local book club.
  • If you work entirely online, you can underestimate the isolation that builds up over time.
  • He felt a sharp sense of isolation in the open-plan office, even while colleagues talked around him.
  • The team addressed her isolation by setting up regular check-ins and shared projects.
  • They described the village’s isolation as both peaceful and challenging during the winter months.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse isolation (the state of being separate) with insulation (material that prevents heat or sound from passing).

More at C1 level

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