"retreat into seclusion" vs "withdraw into seclusion"

Question

"retreat into seclusion" vs "withdraw into seclusion"

Both "retreat into seclusion" and "withdraw into seclusion" are correct phrases that convey the idea of moving away from others to be alone. They are interchangeable and can be used depending on personal preference or writing style.

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

This phrase means to move back or withdraw from society or company into a private place or a state of isolation.

Examples:

After the stressful week, she decided to retreat into seclusion to recharge.
The artist often retreats into seclusion to focus on his work.
In times of trouble, he tends to retreat into seclusion to reflect on his thoughts.

Alternatives:

withdraw into seclusion
isolate oneself
seek solitude
find seclusion
take refuge in seclusion

This phrase means to pull back or remove oneself from social contact to be alone or in isolation.

Examples:

Feeling overwhelmed, she decided to withdraw into seclusion for a while.
He tends to withdraw into seclusion when he needs time to think.
The author often withdraws into seclusion to work on his novels.

Alternatives:

retreat into seclusion
isolate oneself
seek solitude
find seclusion
take refuge in seclusion

Answer 1

retreat into seclusion

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

withdraw into seclusion

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"retreat into seclusion" vs "withdraw into seclusion"

retreat into seclusion

withdraw into seclusion

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