ENGLISH
REFERENCE

acne

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈækni// UK //ˈækni// ac·ne

n. a common skin condition that causes spots or pimples, especially on the face. It often happens to teenagers because of changes in their bodies.

n. a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by the presence of comedones, papules, and pustules. Typically associated with the overproduction of oil by the sebaceous glands during puberty.


SIMPLE

She uses a special face wash to help treat her acne.

CONTEXTUAL

Many teenagers struggle with their self-confidence when they develop severe acne during high school.

COMPLEX

While topical treatments can manage mild cases of acne, more persistent inflammatory conditions may require a dermatologist to prescribe systemic antibiotics or hormonal therapy.

Origin

From New Latin acnē, probably a corruption of Ancient Greek ἀκμή (akmḗ, “point, top”).

Usage

Uncountable; refers to the medical condition rather than an individual spot.

Pitfall

I have many acnes on my face.I have a lot of acne on my face.Acne is uncountable and refers to the condition; individual marks are called 'spots', 'pimples', or 'zits'.

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