isolating

American  

[ahy-suh-ley-ting, is-uh-] / ˈaɪ səˌleɪ tɪŋ, ˈɪs ə- /

adjective

Linguistics.

1. pertaining to or noting a language, as Vietnamese, that uses few or no bound forms and in which grammatical relationships are indicated chiefly through word order.

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isolating British  

/ ˈaɪsəˌleɪtɪŋ /

adjective

1. linguistics another word for analytic

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Etymology

Origin of isolating

First recorded in 1855–60; isolat(e) + -ing ²

Example Sentences

The internet’s vast expanse, once seen as welcoming, is horrifically isolating.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

The work is exacting, isolating, high-pressure—and often takes a steep toll.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

Many Americans, research shows, find nuclear family structures isolating and insufficient, with some choosing to delay or avoid marriage.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2026

By paying traders in the market the last traded price of their position before Khamenei’s death, “we’re isolating the death component,” Lopes Lara says.

From Barron's • Mar. 2, 2026

HARRY: Al—Albus, I’ve been exchanging owls with Professor McGonagall—she says you’re isolating yourself—you’re uncooperative in lessons—you’re surly—you’re — ALBUS: So what would you like me to do?

From "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" by J.K. Rowling

Related Words

• covering
• cushioning
• lining
• padding