C1noun3K

Syndrome

UK /["/ˈsɪndrəʊm/"]/US /["/ˈsɪndrəʊm/"]/

Definition

a set of physical conditions that show you have a particular disease or medical problem

In simple words: A group of symptoms that happen together.

Examples

  • PMS or premenstrual syndrome
  • This syndrome is associated with frequent coughing.
  • This syndrome mostly affects women in their forties.
  • With teenagers, be prepared for the ‘Me, me, me!’ syndrome *(= they think of themselves first)*.
  • This phenomenon has become known as the ‘Californian syndrome’.

Usage notes

Use 'syndrome' in medical or psychological contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless discussing health topics. It might sound overly technical in everyday discussions.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'syndrome' as a ‘sign of a trend’—it reflects a combination of signs.

Collocations

  • acute
  • clinical
  • Asperger’s
  • have
  • suffer from
  • develop
  • affect somebody
  • be present in somebody
  • occur

Synonyms

  • condition
  • disorder
  • illness
  • ailment
  • malady

Antonyms

  • health
  • wellness
  • normality

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'syndrom' - the correct term is 'syndrome'.
  • Using 'sindrom' as a spelling variation, which is incorrect.
  • Assuming all syndromes are well-known or have clear treatments.