Isolate Meaning
Isolate Definition & Usage
To cause someone or something to be set apart from others, typically in a way that leaves them alone or removed from their usual environment or group.
Examples
- "During the pandemic, many people were isolated from their families and friends."
- "The patient was isolated in a separate room to avoid the spread of the infection."
- "The islanders isolated themselves from the outside world to maintain their traditions."
- "The teacher decided to isolate the two students who were arguing during class."
- "The storm isolated the town, cutting off all roads and communication for several days."
To separate or extract a substance from a mixture, or to separate one part of a system from others.
Examples
- "Scientists were able to isolate the virus in the laboratory for further study."
- "The chemist isolated the compound from the plant extract."
- "In the experiment, we had to isolate the variables to ensure accurate results."
- "The technician isolated the faulty part of the machine to avoid damaging the rest of the equipment."
- "By isolating the protein, researchers could study its properties in detail."
To separate a variable or expression in an equation so that it stands alone on one side of the equation.
Examples
- "To solve for x, isolate the variable by subtracting 5 from both sides."
- "We need to isolate y by moving all terms involving x to the other side of the equation."
- "The first step in simplifying the expression is to isolate the constant term."
- "After isolating the denominator, the solution becomes clearer."
- "Isolating the unknown variable helps in simplifying complex algebraic problems."
Cultural Context
The term 'isolate' has roots in the Latin word 'insolatus,' which means to be made alone or to be cut off. In modern usage, it has broad applications, from physical and emotional isolation to scientific and technical contexts.
The Island of Solitude
Story
The Island of Solitude
Mia had always lived in the city, surrounded by noise, people, and endless distractions. But when she inherited a small, secluded island from an estranged relative, she decided to escape her chaotic life and 'isolate' herself for a while. The first few days were peaceful. She walked along the pristine beaches, listening to the sound of the waves and the call of the seagulls. The solitude was exactly what she needed, or so she thought. As the days passed, Mia began to feel the weight of her isolation. She realized how much she missed human interaction, and the loneliness began to eat at her. In a moment of desperation, she attempted to reach out to the outside world, but the storm that hit the island had cut off all communication. She was completely isolated. One morning, as she sipped her coffee by the window, she noticed something odd in the distance: a plume of smoke rising from the other side of the island. Curious, Mia made her way through the dense trees and eventually found a small research station. The scientists there had isolated themselves to study the island’s unique ecosystem. The isolation Mia initially sought had become a double-edged sword. On one hand, it allowed her to reconnect with herself; on the other hand, it reminded her of the importance of connection and community. As she left the island, Mia realized that while isolation could be necessary for personal growth, too much of it could be harmful. In the end, Mia returned to the city, but with a new perspective on life, knowing when to seek solitude and when to embrace the world around her.
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