social isolation

USAGE SUMMARY

"social isolation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a situation in which a person or group of people are cut off from other people or society in general. For example, "The pandemic is leading to increased social isolation, as people are encouraged to stay home and avoid contact with others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Social isolation and depression can follow.

Independent

In monkeys, social isolation impairs sexual functioning.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Social isolation is so damaging.

The Guardian - Books

Social isolation was a relief.

The New York Times - Health

"This social isolation broke my heart.

The New Yorker

The social isolation is compounded as well.

The Guardian

What is the effect of social isolation?

The New York Times

Depression, social isolation, anxiety, hostility, emotional stress.

Harvard University

Social isolation drove a girl to cut her wrists.

The Guardian

On American campuses, however, drinking occurs in surreal social isolation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Commuting is connected to social isolation, which causes unhappiness".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "social isolation" to describe the objective state of being alone, and use "loneliness" to describe the subjective feeling associated with it.

Common error

Avoid using "social isolation" and "loneliness" interchangeably. "Social isolation" refers to a lack of social contacts, while "loneliness" describes the subjective feeling of being alone. You can be socially isolated without feeling lonely, and vice versa.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "social isolation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig shows how it is used to describe a condition or state of being separated from social contact. It can also be modified by adjectives to specify a particular type or aspect of isolation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "social isolation" is a commonly used noun phrase describing the state of being detached from social connections. As Ludwig highlights, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in various contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Science. It's crucial to differentiate it from loneliness, which is the subjective feeling of being alone. Strategies to combat "social isolation" involve enhancing social interaction and seeking support. Ludwig provides many examples to help writers understand how to use it correctly and effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Social exclusion

Focuses on the process of being actively shut out from social activities and resources.

Loneliness

Emphasizes the subjective feeling of being alone and disconnected, which may or may not result from objective isolation.

Lack of social contact

Directly indicates a deficiency in interactions with others, emphasizing the quantitative aspect.

Solitude

Implies a state of being alone, which can be either voluntary and positive or involuntary and negative.

Alienation

Suggests a feeling of estrangement or detachment from society or a group.

Seclusion

Emphasizes being hidden away or withdrawn from others, often implying a deliberate choice.

Detachment

Indicates a lack of emotional connection or involvement with others.

Marginalization

Highlights the process of being pushed to the edge of society or a group, often due to discrimination or other factors.

Withdrawal

Suggests a deliberate retreat from social interaction, often as a coping mechanism.

Social disconnectedness

Focuses on the absence of links or relationships with others.

FAQs

How does "social isolation" affect mental health?

"Social isolation" can negatively impact mental health, leading to conditions like depression, anxiety, and increased stress. It's important to seek "social support" to mitigate these effects.

What are some strategies for reducing "social isolation"?

Strategies for reducing "social isolation" include joining social groups, volunteering, maintaining contact with friends and family, and utilizing technology to connect with others. Seek opportunities for "social interaction".

Is "social isolation" the same as loneliness?

No, "social isolation" and loneliness are distinct concepts. "Social isolation" refers to the objective state of having few social contacts, while loneliness is the subjective feeling of being alone. While they can co-occur, they are not the same. You can have "lack of social contact" without feeling lonely and vice versa.

Who is most at risk for "social isolation"?

Older adults, people with disabilities, individuals living in rural areas, and those experiencing poverty or mental health issues are at higher risk for "social isolation". Consider supporting those with "reduced social interaction".