social isolation: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Not exactly. Social isolation is an objective measure of a lack of social contacts. Loneliness is the painful subjective feeling of being alone. One can be socially isolated and not feel lonely, or feel lonely while surrounded by people.

Yes, some people choose periods of social isolation for reflection or privacy. However, the term most often refers to involuntary isolation which is detrimental to well-being.

Common causes include ageing, loss of mobility, bereavement, mental illness, moving to a new place, remote work, and physical disabilities.

While the phenomenon has always existed, it has gained significant attention in recent decades due to ageing populations in developed nations, changes in family structure, and the rise of digital communication, which can sometimes replace in-person contact.

A state of being physically and/or emotionally separated from others, lacking social contact or meaningful interaction.

Social isolation is usually formal, academic, medical, psychological in register.

Social isolation: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsəʊʃəl ˌaɪsəˈleɪʃən/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsoʊʃəl ˌaɪsəˈleɪʃən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.