What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ostracize
Example
The group decided to ostracize the member who had violated their rules. [ostracize: verb]
Example
She felt ostracized by her colleagues after she spoke out against their unethical practices. [ostracized: past participle]
isolate
Example
The patient was isolated in a separate room to prevent the spread of the virus. [isolated: past participle]
Example
The teacher decided to isolate the disruptive student from the rest of the class. [isolate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Isolate is more commonly used than ostracize in everyday language, especially in medical or scientific contexts. Ostracize is less common and is mostly used in social or political contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ostracize and isolate?
Both ostracize and isolate are formal words and are typically used in serious or professional contexts.
