What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
isolated
Example
The cabin was isolated in the woods, far from any other houses. [isolated: adjective]
Example
After the storm, the town was isolated from the rest of the world due to road closures. [isolated: verb]
solitary
Example
He enjoyed his solitary walks in the park, away from the noise of the city. [solitary: adjective]
Example
She chose to live a solitary life in the countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. [solitary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Isolated is more commonly used than solitary in everyday language. Isolated is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while solitary is less common and more specific to describing people who choose to be alone.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between isolated and solitary?
Both isolated and solitary can be used in formal and informal contexts, but isolated may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing to describe physical separation or detachment.