formal 10K+

Radiotherapy

UK //ˌreɪ.dɪ.oʊˈθer.ə.pi// US //ˌreɪ.dɪ.oʊˈθer.ə.pi// Pronunciation

Definition

Treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A treatment using radiation to kill cancer cells.

Examples

• The doctor recommended radiotherapy to treat the patient's cancer.
• After surgery, she underwent radiotherapy to ensure all cancer cells were eliminated.
• He felt tired after the sessions of radiotherapy, which is a common side effect.
• Radiotherapy can often be combined with chemotherapy for better results.
• Patients might experience skin irritation after radiotherapy treatments.

Usage notes

Commonly used in medical contexts. Not suitable for casual conversations. Always refer to it when discussing cancer treatment.

Grammar pattern

use + radiotherapy + as an uncountable noun

Memory hint

Think of 'radio' waves targeting tumors like a beam of light.

Collocations

• administration of radiotherapy
• course of radiotherapy
• side effects of radiotherapy

Synonyms

• radiation therapy
• radiation treatment
• radiation oncology

Common mistakes

• Confused with chemotherapy, which is a different treatment.
• Omitting the word 'radiotherapy' when discussing cancer treatments.
• Using the term incorrectly in non-medical contexts.