Synonyms for

Loneliness

Verb / ˈləʊnli:nʌs / Another word for loneliness — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Loneliness is the state of being sad and alone, and feeling like you have no one to talk to.

Synonyms & similar words

aloneness solitariness forlornness desolation lonesomeness solitude isolation seclusion aloneness desolation emptiness isolationism separateness singleness solitariness unpopularity aloneness disconnection forlornness friendlessness separateness solitariness unhappiness withdrawal

Synonyms by register

Formal

solitude isolation estrangement

Informal

aloneness being on your own feeling left out

Literary

desolation seclusion wistfulness

Antonyms

companionship sociability togetherness connection friendship belonging community

Common collocations

  • deep loneliness
  • crippling loneliness
  • sense of loneliness
  • overcome loneliness
  • loneliness and isolation
  • loneliness can lead to
  • loneliness in old age

Word family

noun loneliness
adjective lonely

Usage note

Loneliness refers to the feeling of sadness or distress caused by being alone or feeling disconnected from others. It is distinct from solitude, which is the state of being alone but can be chosen and enjoyed.

Example sentences

  1. Loneliness is a feeling that everyone experiences at some point in their life.
  2. She felt loneliness creeping in as she walked down the empty street.
  3. Sometimes being surrounded by people can make loneliness feel even worse.
  4. The loneliness of living in a new city can be overwhelming.
  5. He found comfort in the solitude of the forest, but the loneliness still lingered.

Quotes

  • The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself.
  • Loneliness is the poverty of self; solitude is the richness of self.
  • The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself.

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