Feeling isolated can be tough, but knowing the right slang terms to express that feeling can help you connect with others who may be going through the same thing. Our team has put together a list of the top slang for feeling isolated that will not only resonate with you but also help you navigate conversations with ease. So, grab a cup of tea, cozy up, and let’s dive into this insightful listicle together!
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1. Recluse
A person who lives in seclusion or isolation from society. “Recluse” is often used to describe someone who prefers solitude and avoids social interaction.
- For example, “He’s such a recluse, he rarely leaves his house.”
- In a discussion about introverts, someone might say, “I can relate to being a bit of a recluse sometimes.”
- A friend might ask, “Are you turning into a recluse? We haven’t seen you in weeks!”
2. Isolated
Being separated from others or feeling alone. “Isolated” can refer to both physical and emotional separation.
- For instance, “Living in a remote area can leave you feeling isolated from the rest of the world.”
- In a conversation about mental health, someone might say, “Depression can make you feel isolated, even when you’re surrounded by people.”
- A person experiencing difficulty connecting with others might say, “I feel so isolated in social situations, like I don’t belong.”
3. Sequestered
To be kept apart or separated from others. “Sequestered” often implies a deliberate and enforced isolation.
- For example, “The witness was sequestered to prevent them from being influenced by outside information.”
- In a discussion about jury deliberations, someone might say, “During the trial, the jury is sequestered to avoid exposure to media coverage.”
- A person discussing quarantine measures might say, “Those who test positive for COVID-19 are sequestered to prevent further spread of the virus.”
4. Withdrawn
Being shy or preferring to keep to oneself. “Withdrawn” describes someone who tends to be quiet and avoids social interaction.
- For instance, “She’s always been a bit withdrawn, preferring to observe rather than participate.”
- In a conversation about personality traits, someone might say, “I’m more introverted and withdrawn, so I need time alone to recharge.”
- A friend might ask, “Are you feeling withdrawn lately? You haven’t been your usual self.”
5. Detached
Feeling disconnected or emotionally removed from others. “Detached” can describe a lack of emotional engagement or involvement.
- For example, “After the breakup, she became emotionally detached from relationships.”
- In a discussion about empathy, someone might say, “I struggle with feeling detached from others’ emotions.”
- A person experiencing a loss might say, “Grief can make you feel detached from reality, like you’re in a fog.”
6. Remote
When someone is “remote,” it means they are physically or emotionally isolated from others. This can refer to being in a remote location or feeling distant from friends and family.
- For example, “Living in a remote village, she rarely saw other people.”
- A person might say, “I feel so remote from everyone since moving to a new city.”
- In a discussion about social distancing, someone might comment, “I’ve been feeling really remote lately, not being able to see my friends and family.”
7. Quarantined
Quarantine refers to the act of isolating oneself or being isolated due to a contagious disease or illness. It involves staying away from others to prevent the spread of infection.
- For instance, “After testing positive for COVID-19, she was quarantined in her home for two weeks.”
- A person might say, “I’ve been quarantined in my room with the flu.”
- In a discussion about travel restrictions, someone might comment, “If you travel to certain countries, you may be required to be quarantined upon your return.”
8. Insulated
When someone is “insulated,” it means they are protected or shielded from outside influences or factors. This can refer to being sheltered from certain information or being emotionally detached from others.
- For example, “Growing up in a small town, she felt insulated from the realities of the world.”
- A person might say, “I try to stay insulated from negative news to maintain my mental well-being.”
- In a discussion about relationships, someone might comment, “He has become emotionally insulated after going through a difficult breakup.”
9. Segregated
Segregation refers to the act of separating or isolating individuals or groups based on specific characteristics such as race, religion, or social status. It involves creating distinct spaces or communities for different groups.
- For instance, “During the era of racial segregation, African Americans were often segregated from white communities.”
- A person might say, “The school used to be segregated, but now it’s more diverse.”
- In a discussion about social inequality, someone might comment, “Segregated neighborhoods often face economic disadvantages and lack access to resources.”
10. Alienated
When someone is “alienated,” it means they feel disconnected or estranged from others. This can be due to a lack of understanding, disagreement, or a sense of not belonging.
- For example, “After the argument, she felt alienated from her friends.”
- A person might say, “I’ve always felt alienated from my family because of our different values.”
- In a discussion about workplace dynamics, someone might comment, “If employees feel alienated, it can negatively impact their productivity and morale.”
11. Sequestrated
This term refers to being completely isolated or separated from others, often involuntarily. It implies being removed or hidden away from the rest of the world.
- For example, a prisoner might feel sequestrated from the outside world while serving a long sentence.
- In a discussion about mental health, someone might say, “During my darkest times, I felt completely sequestrated from my friends and family.”
- A person going through a difficult breakup might express, “After the relationship ended, I sequestrated myself in my apartment for weeks.”
12. Estranged
This term refers to being emotionally or physically separated from someone with whom you once had a close relationship. It implies a sense of distance and lack of connection.
- For instance, a person might say, “I’m estranged from my father; we haven’t spoken in years.”
- In a conversation about family dynamics, someone might share, “My sister and I used to be close, but now we’re estranged.”
- A person discussing their social life might mention, “Since moving to a new city, I’ve become estranged from my old group of friends.”
13. Disconnected
This term refers to feeling detached or separated from others, either physically or emotionally. It implies a lack of connection or understanding with those around you.
- For example, a person might say, “I feel disconnected from my coworkers; I don’t really fit in with them.”
- In a discussion about technology, someone might express, “I hate how smartphones make people feel so disconnected from each other.”
- A person going through a tough time might share, “During my depression, I felt completely disconnected from the world.”
14. Shunned
This term refers to being intentionally ignored, avoided, or rejected by a group or community. It implies being ostracized or excluded.
- For instance, a person might say, “After the scandal, I was shunned by my former friends.”
- In a conversation about social dynamics, someone might share, “In high school, I was shunned by the popular kids.”
- A person discussing their experiences might mention, “Being shunned by my community was one of the hardest things I’ve ever gone through.”
15. Forsaken
This term refers to being completely abandoned or left behind, often in a helpless or desperate situation. It implies a sense of being forgotten or forsaken by others.
- For example, a person might say, “I feel forsaken by my own family; they’ve turned their backs on me.”
- In a discussion about survival, someone might express, “The stranded hiker felt forsaken by the world.”
- A person going through a difficult time might share, “During my darkest moments, I felt completely forsaken by everyone around me.”
16. Desolate
Desolate refers to a place that is deserted, empty, and lacking in life or activity. It can also describe a feeling of loneliness or isolation.
- For example, “The desolate town was once bustling with activity, but now it’s abandoned.”
- A person might say, “I felt desolate after all my friends moved away.”
- In a post about a remote location, someone might comment, “The desolate landscape was breathtaking.”
17. Abandoned
Abandoned refers to something that has been left behind, neglected, or deserted by its owner or inhabitants. It can describe a place or an object that has been forsaken.
- For instance, “The abandoned house was rumored to be haunted.”
- A person might say, “I found an abandoned car in the woods.”
- In a discussion about urban exploration, someone might mention, “Exploring abandoned buildings can be both thrilling and eerie.”
18. Marooned
Marooned refers to being stranded or left in a place with no means of escape or assistance. It often implies a feeling of isolation and helplessness.
- For example, “The shipwreck survivors were marooned on a deserted island.”
- A person might say, “I feel marooned in this small town with no transportation.”
- In a post about being stuck at an airport, someone might comment, “I’ve been marooned in this terminal for hours.”
19. Lone
Lone refers to being solitary or alone, often by choice or circumstance. It can describe a person, an animal, or a place that is devoid of companionship or company.
- For instance, “The lone wolf wandered through the forest.”
- A person might say, “I enjoy taking long walks in the park alone, I feel at peace being lone.”
- In a discussion about solo travel, someone might mention, “Exploring new cities as a lone traveler can be liberating.”
20. Deserted
Deserted refers to a place that is empty, uninhabited, and devoid of people or activity. It can also describe a feeling of being abandoned or left behind.
- For example, “The deserted beach was a peaceful retreat.”
- A person might say, “The town looked deserted, like a ghost town.”
- In a post about a forgotten amusement park, someone might comment, “It’s eerie walking through the deserted rides and attractions.”
21. Cut off
This term refers to being completely separated or disconnected from others. It can describe a physical or emotional separation.
- For example, “After the storm, the town was cut off from the rest of the world.”
- In a social context, someone might say, “I feel cut off from my friends since I moved to a new city.”
- A person discussing a break-up might say, “I had to cut off all contact with my ex to move on.”
22. Exiled
Being exiled means being forced to leave one’s home or country and live in isolation or banishment.
- For instance, “The political dissident was exiled for speaking out against the government.”
- In a historical context, someone might say, “Napoleon was exiled to the island of Elba after his defeat.”
- A person discussing personal experiences might say, “I felt exiled from my family after coming out as LGBTQ+.”
23. Solitude
Solitude refers to the state of being alone or isolated, often by choice.
- For example, “He enjoys the peace and solitude of the mountains.”
- In a poetic context, someone might say, “She sought solitude in the embrace of nature.”
- A person discussing self-reflection might say, “Solitude allows for deep introspection and personal growth.”
24. Seclusion
Seclusion refers to the act of isolating oneself or being isolated from others.
- For instance, “The writer sought seclusion in a cabin in the woods to focus on their novel.”
- In a medical context, someone might say, “Patients with contagious diseases are placed in seclusion to prevent the spread.”
- A person discussing mental health might say, “Periods of seclusion can be beneficial for introverts to recharge.”
25. Isolation
Isolation refers to the state of being separated or cut off from others, either physically or emotionally.
- For example, “The prisoner experienced long periods of isolation in solitary confinement.”
- In a global context, someone might say, “The pandemic has led to widespread isolation and loneliness.”
- A person discussing mental health might say, “Feelings of isolation can contribute to depression and anxiety.”
26. Sequestration
Sequestration refers to the act of separating or isolating someone or something from others. It can be used to describe a physical or social isolation.
- For example, during a pandemic, individuals may be placed in sequestration to prevent the spread of the virus.
- In a legal context, sequestration can refer to the process of separating property or assets during a dispute.
- A person might say, “I need some sequestration time to recharge and be alone for a while.”
27. Detachment
Detachment refers to a state of being emotionally or physically separated from others. It can describe a deliberate choice to distance oneself or a feeling of disconnection.
- For instance, someone going through a difficult breakup might say, “I’m trying to practice detachment and focus on myself.”
- In a military context, detachment can refer to a small unit or group that is separated from the main force.
- A person might describe feeling detachment from their surroundings, saying, “I feel a sense of detachment from the world lately.”
28. Quarantine
Quarantine is the act of isolating individuals who have been exposed to a contagious disease to prevent its spread. It can also refer to a period of isolation following travel to a high-risk area.
- For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals who test positive for the virus are required to quarantine for a specified period.
- A person might say, “I just returned from a trip abroad, so I’m currently in quarantine.”
- In a humorous context, someone might joke, “Quarantine has turned me into a master chef of canned goods.”
29. Exclusion
Exclusion refers to the act of being left out or intentionally kept apart from a group or activity. It can be a result of social dynamics or deliberate actions.
- For instance, if a person is not invited to a party, they may feel a sense of exclusion.
- In a workplace setting, exclusion can happen when certain individuals are not included in important meetings or decision-making processes.
- A person might express their feelings of exclusion, saying, “I always feel a sense of exclusion when my friends make plans without me.”
30. Lone wolf
Lone wolf refers to a person who prefers to be alone or operate independently, often avoiding social interactions or group activities.
- For example, someone might describe themselves as a lone wolf if they enjoy spending time alone and don’t rely on others for socializing.
- In a team setting, a person who prefers to work alone and doesn’t actively participate in group discussions might be referred to as a lone wolf.
- A person might say, “I’m a bit of a lone wolf when it comes to traveling. I enjoy exploring new places on my own.”
31. Alone
This term refers to being without any companions or in solitude. It can also imply a feeling of loneliness or being separate from others.
- For example, “I prefer to spend my weekends alone, reading and relaxing.”
- Someone might say, “I feel alone even when I’m surrounded by people.”
- Another person might comment, “Being alone allows me to focus on my thoughts and recharge.”
32. Standoffish
This word describes someone who is aloof, unfriendly, or keeps their distance from others. It implies a lack of warmth or openness in social interactions.
- For instance, “She always appears standoffish at parties, avoiding conversations.”
- A person might say, “I find it hard to approach someone who seems standoffish.”
- Another might comment, “His standoffish behavior makes it difficult to connect with him.”
33. Apart
This term refers to being separated or distant from others. It can imply physical or emotional distance.
- For example, “We live apart from each other, but we make it work.”
- A person might say, “Being apart from loved ones can be challenging.”
- Another might comment, “We are emotionally apart, even when we’re in the same room.”
34. Isolationist
This word describes someone who believes in the policy or practice of isolating oneself or one’s country from the affairs of other nations. It can also refer to someone who prefers to be alone or isolated from society.
- For instance, “He is an isolationist who believes in focusing on internal matters and avoiding international conflicts.”
- A person might say, “I’m more of an isolationist, preferring to spend time alone rather than in social situations.”
- Another might comment, “Isolationists argue that focusing on oneself leads to personal growth.”
35. Cloistered
This term refers to being secluded or sheltered from the outside world. It often implies a protected or restricted environment.
- For example, “She grew up in a cloistered community, isolated from mainstream society.”
- A person might say, “Living a cloistered life can limit one’s perspective and experiences.”
- Another might comment, “The cloistered environment provided a sense of security, but also a lack of exposure to the real world.”
36. Sealed off
When something is “sealed off,” it means that it is completely closed off or isolated from the surrounding area or people.
- For example, “The crime scene was sealed off by the police.”
- During a pandemic, a city might seal off its borders to prevent the spread of the virus.
- A construction site might be sealed off to keep unauthorized personnel out.
37. Insular
When someone or something is “insular,” it means that they are closed off from the outside world and have a limited perspective or understanding.
- For instance, “She has an insular view of the world and rarely travels.”
- A small town with limited exposure to different cultures might be considered insular.
- In a discussion about diverse perspectives, someone might say, “We need to break out of our insular thinking and consider other viewpoints.”
38. Shut off
To be “shut off” means to be isolated or disconnected from others or from the outside world.
- For example, “After the storm, the town was shut off from the rest of the world.”
- A person who is upset might shut themselves off from social interactions.
- In a technology context, a device might be shut off from the internet or other networks.
39. Solo
When someone is “solo,” it means that they are alone or isolated from others.
- For instance, “I prefer to travel solo and explore new places on my own.”
- A person might choose to go solo on a project to have more control over the outcome.
- In a conversation about going to a party, someone might say, “I might go solo tonight and meet new people.”
40. Outcast
An “outcast” is someone who has been rejected or excluded from a group or community, often resulting in their isolation.
- For example, “She felt like an outcast after being excluded from the clique.”
- A person might become an outcast if they don’t conform to societal norms.
- In a discussion about bullying, someone might share their experience of being an outcast in school.
41. Shut-in
A shut-in is someone who rarely leaves their house or has limited social interaction with others. The term is often used to describe individuals who prefer to stay at home for various reasons, such as physical limitations or anxiety.
- For example, “Ever since he retired, he’s become a shut-in and rarely goes out.”
- Someone might say, “I feel like a shut-in during the winter months when it’s too cold to go outside.”
- A friend might ask, “Are you feeling like a shut-in lately? We should go out and do something fun!”
42. Excluded
Being excluded means being intentionally or unintentionally left out of a group or activity. It can refer to feeling isolated or not being included in social gatherings or events.
- For instance, “I always feel excluded when my coworkers go out for lunch without inviting me.”
- In a discussion about school cliques, someone might say, “Being excluded from the popular group made me feel like an outsider.”
- A person might express their feelings by saying, “I hate feeling excluded from social events. It really hurts.”
43. Independent
While not directly related to isolation, “independent” can sometimes be used to describe someone who prefers to do things on their own and doesn’t rely on others for support or company. This can sometimes lead to a sense of isolation or being isolated from others.
- For example, “She’s always been an independent person and doesn’t need anyone else to be happy.”
- Someone might say, “I enjoy being independent, but sometimes it can feel lonely.”
- A friend might comment, “You’re so independent, I admire that about you. But don’t forget to reach out when you need help.”