What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reclusive
Example
The writer was known for being reclusive, rarely leaving his house. [reclusive: adjective]
Example
She became increasingly reclusive after her husband passed away. [reclusive: adjective]
isolated
Example
The cabin was isolated, surrounded by miles of forest. [isolated: adjective]
Example
He felt isolated from his family and friends after moving to a new city. [isolated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Isolated is more commonly used than reclusive in everyday language. Isolated is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while reclusive is less common and typically used to describe a specific type of person.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reclusive and isolated?
Both reclusive and isolated are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional writing. However, reclusive may be considered more formal due to its less common usage.
