# MRI

/ˌɛˌmɑˈɹaɪ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mri
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. medical imaging process

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

Stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. A medical process that uses magnets to see inside the body.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The diagnostic technique or the resulting image produced by magnetic resonance.

- The doctor ordered an MRI to check for a knee injury.
- The patient underwent an MRI to provide the surgical team with high-resolution images of the soft tissue surrounding the spinal column.

### 2. the scanning machine

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

The large, tunnel-shaped machine used to take these medical pictures.

For teachers: The physical apparatus or scanner used to perform magnetic resonance imaging.

- It can be scary to lie still inside the MRI for a long time.
- Modern MRI machines are designed to be less claustrophobic while maintaining the high magnetic field strength required for diagnostic clarity.

### 3. to perform a scan

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical · Informal

To use a magnetic scanner to take pictures of a person's body.

For teachers: To perform a magnetic resonance imaging scan on a patient or specific body part.

- They decided to MRI his shoulder to see if the bone was broken.
- The medical staff needed to MRI the patient immediately to rule out any internal bleeding after the accident.

Usage: Often used transitively in clinical shorthand.

## Examples

- The doctor ordered an MRI to check my knee.
- She had to remove all metal jewelry before entering the MRI scanner.
- The high-resolution MRI revealed subtle changes in brain tissue that earlier X-rays had completely missed.

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