A2noun1K

Disease

UK /["/dɪˈziːz/"]/US /["/dɪˈziːz/"]/

Definition

an illness affecting humans, animals or plants, often caused by infection

In simple words: An illness or sickness that affects a person's body or mind.

Examples

The doctor diagnosed her with a rare disease.
He is working on a new treatment for the disease.
The disease spread quickly through the population.
Many diseases can be prevented with vaccines.
Some plants are resistant to certain diseases, making them easier to grow.

Usage notes

Commonly used in medical contexts. Not typically used to refer to minor illnesses like colds; more for serious or chronic conditions.

Grammar pattern

noun

Memory hint

Think of 'de' + 'cease' - a disease causes the body's functions to cease.

Collocations

common
obscure
rare
outbreak
have
suffer from
catch
spread
affect somebody
afflict somebody
with a/the disease
disease in
disease of
a cure for a disease
the incidence of (a) disease
a patient with a disease

Synonyms

illness
sickness
condition
disorder
ailment

Antonyms

health
wellness

Common mistakes

Confused with 'disorder' which refers to a less defined condition.
Using 'disease' too casually in everyday conversations.
Omitting the article when referring to specific diseases.