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Biopsy

UK //ˈbaɪɒpsi// US //ˈbaɪɑːpsi// Pronunciation

Definition

A medical procedure to extract tissue for examination to diagnose disease.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A test to check for disease in a small piece of tissue.

Examples

• The doctor recommended a biopsy to determine if the lump is cancerous.
• After the biopsy, results showed that the tissue was benign.
• Patients should understand the risks involved before undergoing a biopsy.
• The biopsy results came back quickly, leading to prompt treatment.
• A skin biopsy can help assess the severity of a skin condition.
• He felt anxious about the biopsy but knew it was necessary for his health.

Usage notes

Used primarily in medical contexts. Appropriate in discussions between doctors and patients but may be too technical for general conversation.

Grammar pattern

perform + biopsy

Memory hint

Sounds like 'buy a pie' - imagine buying a pie that reveals your health.

Collocations

• perform a biopsy
• biopsy results
• skin biopsy
• breast biopsy

Synonyms

• tissue sample
• medical test
• diagnostic procedure

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'autopsy', which is performed after death.
• Mispronouncing the second syllable as a long 'o' instead of 'ops'.
• Using as a verb when it should be a noun (e.g., 'to biopsy' instead of 'to perform a biopsy').