What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ostracization
Example
After the scandal, the politician faced ostracization from his party and supporters. [ostracization: noun]
Example
The new student was ostracized by her classmates for being different. [ostracized: verb]
isolation
Example
The astronaut experienced isolation during his long mission in space. [isolation: noun]
Example
The patient was isolated in the hospital room to prevent the spread of the virus. [isolated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Isolation is more commonly used than ostracization in everyday language. Isolation is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while ostracization is less common and refers to a specific type of social exclusion.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ostracization and isolation?
Both ostracization and isolation are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts, such as legal, medical, or academic settings.