C1adjective2K

Chronic

UK /["/ˈkrɒnɪk/"]/US /["/ˈkrɑːnɪk/"]/

Definition

lasting for a long time; difficult to cure

In simple words: happening all the time or for a long time

Examples

  • chronic bronchitis/arthritis/asthma
  • a **chronic alcoholic/depressive**
  • the country’s chronic unemployment problem
  • a chronic shortage of housing in rural areas
  • The film was just chronic.

Usage notes

Used in medical contexts to describe conditions that are long-lasting. Avoid in casual conversations where simpler words (like 'constant') might be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

chronic + noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'chronic' clock that never stops ticking; it keeps going just like long-term issues.

Collocations

  • chronic illness
  • chronic pain
  • chronic condition
  • chronic fatigue
  • chronic disease

Synonyms

  • persistent
  • long-lasting
  • enduring
  • constant
  • recurrent

Antonyms

  • acute
  • temporary
  • short-term

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'acute', which means a condition that comes on quickly.
  • Using it to describe minor or temporary issues instead of serious ones.
  • Forgetting to connect it with a noun, as in 'chronic pain' or 'chronic illness'.