# prevalence

/ˈpɹɛvəɫəns/ (US) · /pɹˈɛvələns/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/prevalence
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. being common

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

the fact that something is common or happens in many places.

For teachers: the state or condition of being widespread or predominant in a particular area or at a particular time.

- The prevalence of smartphones has changed how we communicate with our friends.
- The prevalence of traditional folk motifs in modern architecture suggests a renewed interest in regional identity.

Usage: Often followed by the preposition 'of'.

### 2. medical/statistical rate

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the percentage of people in a group who have a specific disease or condition at one time.

For teachers: the total number of cases of a disease in a given population at a specific time, usually expressed as a fraction or percentage.

- Doctors are worried about the high prevalence of heart disease in the city.
- Epidemiologists noted a significant increase in the prevalence of respiratory conditions among residents living near the industrial zone.

Usage: Commonly used in public health and statistical reporting.

## Examples

- The prevalence of smartphones has changed how we communicate.
- Researchers are studying the high prevalence of heart disease in urban areas compared to rural communities.
- Despite the prevalence of digital media, physical book sales have remained remarkably resilient among younger demographics who value the tactile experience of reading.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.