formal 10K+

Chemotherapy

UK //ˌkɛməʊˈθɛrəpi// US //ˌkiːməʊˈθɛrəpi// Pronunciation

Definition

A treatment method using drugs to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A type of medicine used to treat cancer.

Examples

• The doctor explained the chemotherapy options available for her condition.
• He felt fatigued after his third round of chemotherapy.
• Chemotherapy can cause various side effects, including nausea and hair loss.
• Many patients seek support groups after starting chemotherapy.
• The research focused on improving chemotherapy effectiveness in treating specific cancers.

Usage notes

Used mostly in medical contexts. Not informal and is specific to cancer treatment.

Grammar pattern

noun + with chemotherapy

Memory hint

Think of 'chemo' – like 'chemical' – treating cancer with special chemicals.

Collocations

• undergo chemotherapy
• chemotherapy drugs
• chemotherapy treatment

Synonyms

• cancer treatment
• antineoplastic therapy
• chemotherapeutic agents

Common mistakes

• Confusing chemotherapy with radiation therapy.
• Mispronouncing the term as 'chemo-therapy' instead of 'chemotherapy'.