isolated character

USAGE SUMMARY

"isolated character" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is alone or alienated from society, for example: "The protagonist in the novel is an isolated character who struggles to connect with others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Each turns on a tragically isolated character whose story is partly expressed through the extremes visited on his or her bleeding, battered and palpably vulnerable body.

The New York Times

Readers of Brockmeier's previous novels and stories — particularly "The Brief History of the Dead," from 2006 — will be familiar with his talent for dramatizing the struggles of an isolated character.

The New York Times - Books

The Paris-born Martin moved to Japan with her parents when she was seven, spending six years there before returning to France, which helped her tap into Louise's isolated character.

Independent

In contrast to Newman's idea of Quatermass as the embodiment of humanity, writer and lecturer Peter Hutchings in his essay "We are the Martians" sees Quatermass as an isolated character.

Wikipedia

Each novella concerns an isolated character desperate to know and connect with another.

The New York Times - Books

In a strange way, they say, her reputation as a stern and isolated character has worked to her advantage, because it was so off base.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Mavis Gallant's stories depict isolated characters whose fragile worlds of illusion are shattered (The Selected Stories of Mavis Gallant, 1996).

Britannica

In both instances the sputtering war drawing to a close in the world outside becomes something more personal within the odd, artificial community of these isolated characters.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Carrey had just surged to stardom, playing innocent, lovably juvenile, socially isolated characters in a series of hugely successful comedies that included "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective," "The Mask" and "Dumb & Dumber".

The New York Times

Whereas Carver's stories focus on the difficulties of emotional connection and tend to feature isolated characters living in a present quite divorced from conventional social and political concerns, Mr. Englander's people define themselves largely through their embrace — or rejection — of Jewish orthodoxy and tradition.

The New York Times - Books

Online handwriting databases also comprise isolated characters, words, or sentences.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When crafting a story, use "isolated character" to depict a figure separated physically or emotionally from their environment to enhance feelings of suspense, introspection, or conflict.

Common error

Avoid labeling a character as an "isolated character" if their solitude is merely a temporary situation rather than a core aspect of their personality or role in the narrative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "isolated character" functions as a descriptive term, typically an adjective-noun combination, used to identify a figure who is physically or emotionally set apart from others. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is well-formed and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

35%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "isolated character" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase across diverse writing contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively describes individuals who are set apart from others, either physically or emotionally. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific domains, its neutral tone makes it suitable for both formal analysis and general narrative. When using this phrase, consider the nuances of loneliness, alienation, and detachment, and avoid applying it to temporary states of solitude.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lonely protagonist

Focuses on the feeling of loneliness experienced by the main character.

outsider character

Highlights that the character does not belong or fit in within their social environment.

solitary figure

Emphasizes the character's physical aloneness and independence.

estranged character

Suggests a separation from family or friends that causes loneliness.

alienated individual

Highlights the character's estrangement from society or a group.

unconnected character

Characterizes a character that lacks relationships.

detached persona

Suggests the character is emotionally distant and uninvolved.

reclusive type

Indicates a character who prefers to avoid social interaction.

independent character

Underscores the character's self-reliance and preference to be alone.

insular character

Emphasizes the character's narrow-mindedness and secluded nature.

FAQs

How can I effectively portray an "isolated character" in my writing?

Focus on internal monologues, limited interactions with others, and the character's unique perspective on their surroundings. Show, don't tell, their isolation through their actions and choices.

What are some common themes associated with an "isolated character"?

Loneliness, self-discovery, alienation, and the search for connection are frequent themes. Consider exploring the reasons behind their isolation and its impact on their journey.

What's the difference between an "isolated character" and a "lonely character"?

While related, an "isolated character" may be physically or socially removed from others, whereas a "lonely character" specifically experiences emotional distress due to a lack of connection.

Are there any famous examples of an "isolated character" in literature?

Yes, characters like Jay Gatsby in "The Great Gatsby", Frankenstein's monster in "Frankenstein", and Holden Caulfield in "The Catcher in the Rye" are well-known for their isolation.