isolating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "isolating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of separating or setting something apart from others, often in a context related to research, psychology, or physical spaces. Example: "The researchers focused on isolating the variables to determine their individual effects on the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I don't think the sanctions will affect anything politically, and isolating Russia you really play into the hands of reactionary forces," he said.

The Guardian

I love a nice frock as much as the next woman, but I am also concerned that the industry often operates in a moral vacuum, arrogantly isolating itself from social mores and moral codes by which the rest of us are not only expected to live but are actually perfectly happy to abide by.

The Guardian - Opinion

Backed by the government-funded Quilliam Foundation and their media cheerleaders, the neocons have pressed tirelessly to end residual official engagement with mainstream nonviolent Islamist groups, hitherto aimed at isolating the genuinely extreme groups actually in the business of blowing up buses and tubes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Modern life, we feel, is isolating enough without self-service check-outs.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Major airlines have shut down routes, isolating large swaths of the countries.

The Guardian

Ihram said young Muslims were already contributing to Australian society with high levels of tertiary entrance rates and community participation but the government's unhelpful rhetoric, such as Tony Abbott singling out the community, was isolating.

The Guardian

When it happens, it's incredibly isolating – especially if you're fending for yourself and living away from home for the first time.

The Guardian

We argued that the cost of the scheme was relatively small and far out-weighed by the social costs of isolating older and disabled people in their homes.

The Guardian

"Since declaring war on drugs nearly 40 years ago, we've been demonising our most desperate citizens, isolating and incarcerating them and otherwise denying them a role in the American collective.

The Guardian

In the early days his work was mainly concentrated on cardiovascular research, searching and isolating anti-hypertensive agents used to lower blood pressure.

The Guardian - Business

And while Washington talks of isolating Russia because of Ukraine, Berlin is saying the opposite, stressing engagement and keeping channels open to the Kremlin.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "isolating", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended meaning. For example, "isolating" a virus is different from "isolating" a country politically.

Common error

Avoid using "isolating" when you mean "alienating". "Isolating" refers to the act of separating, while "alienating" describes the feeling of being isolated or estranged. For instance, sanctions can end up alienating a population more than isolating a regime.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "isolating" is that of a present participle or gerund, functioning as a verb when part of a continuous tense or as a noun when describing the act of isolating. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "isolating" functions primarily as a verb describing the act of separating or setting something apart. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and frequent use across varied contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. It's important to differentiate "isolating" from "alienating", and to consider the specific context for accurate usage. Alternatives such as "separating" or "quarantining" may be more appropriate depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

separating

Focuses on the act of dividing or distinguishing something from others.

segregating

Emphasizes the separation of groups or individuals, often with a negative connotation.

quarantining

Specifically refers to isolating to prevent the spread of disease.

detaching

Implies a removal or disconnection from something.

alienating

Suggests causing someone to feel isolated or estranged.

sequestering

Highlights the act of setting something apart, often for protection or preservation.

excluding

Focuses on preventing something or someone from being included.

cutting off

Implies a sudden and complete separation.

setting apart

Emphasizes distinguishing something as unique or special.

cordoning off

Highlights creating a barrier to isolate an area.

FAQs

How is "isolating" used in scientific research?

In scientific research, "isolating" often refers to separating a specific element or variable to study its effects independently. For example, researchers might focus on "isolating" a particular gene to understand its function.

What are some synonyms for "isolating" in a medical context?

In a medical context, synonyms for "isolating" include "quarantining", "containing", or "separating", especially when dealing with contagious diseases.

When is it appropriate to use "isolating" in a political context?

"Isolating" in a political context often refers to diplomatic or economic actions taken to separate a country or regime from international relations, aiming to influence its behavior. However, one should consider if "engaging with" might be a more effective strategy.

What's the difference between "isolating" and "separating"?

While both "isolating" and "separating" involve setting something apart, "isolating" often implies a more complete or deliberate act of keeping something entirely distinct, whereas "separating" can be a more general term for dividing or distinguishing.