What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
isolate
Example
The doctor advised the patient to isolate themselves at home to prevent the spread of the virus. [isolate: verb]
Example
After a long day at work, I like to isolate myself in my room and read a book. [isolate: reflexive verb]
Example
It's important to isolate the contaminated materials from the rest of the waste. [isolate: transitive verb]
quarantine
Example
The passengers on the flight were placed in quarantine for two weeks due to possible exposure to the virus. [quarantine: noun]
Example
After testing positive for the virus, the patient was required to quarantine themselves at home. [quarantine: verb]
Example
The government imposed a quarantine on all imported goods to prevent the spread of invasive species. [quarantine: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Quarantine is more commonly used than isolate in medical contexts and public health discussions. Isolate is more versatile and can be used in various contexts beyond disease prevention.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between isolate and quarantine?
Both isolate and quarantine are formal terms commonly used in medical and public health contexts.
