Silence vs Solitude

People get it wrong, silence vs. solitude

 

Definition of SILENCE

1

: forbearance from speech or noise : muteness —often used interjectionally

2

: absence of sound or noise : stillness <in the silence of the night>

3

: absence of mention: a : oblivion, obscurity b : secrecy <weapons research was conducted in silence>

Silence is the lack of sound. Lack of mention. No noise.

Solitude is different:

Definition of SOLITUDE

1

: the quality or state of being alone or remote from society : seclusion

2

: a lonely place (as a desert)

Silence is about being quiet.  Solitude is about being alone.  I like both.  Some people can not be alone with themselves, so dislike the solitude.  But solitude does not have to be silent.  And silence can be solitary or communal.