ENGLISH
REFERENCE

diseases

n. countable
A2 Elementary US //dɪˈzizəz// UK //dɪzˈiːzɪz// dis·eases

n. illnesses or medical conditions that stop the body or mind from working normally. They are often caused by bacteria, viruses, or bad habits.

n. disordered or incorrectly functioning organs, parts, or systems of the body resulting from genetic or developmental errors, infection, poisons, or environmental factors.


SIMPLE

Doctors work hard to find cures for many diseases.

CONTEXTUAL

Public health officials focus on preventing the spread of infectious diseases by encouraging regular hand washing and vaccinations.

COMPLEX

While some chronic diseases are the result of genetic predispositions, others are heavily influenced by environmental stressors and long-term lifestyle choices that accumulate over decades.

Synonyms
Usage

Commonly used in the plural to refer to various medical conditions; the singular form 'disease' often refers to a specific illness or the general concept of being unwell.

Pitfall

He has a lot of sicknesses.He has many diseases.While 'sickness' is a general feeling of being unwell, 'disease' is the correct term for specific, diagnosed medical conditions.

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