B2adjective5K

Pregnant

UK /["/ˈpreɡnənt/"]/US /["/ˈpreɡnənt/"]/

Definition

having a baby or young animal developing inside her/its body

In simple words: When a woman has a baby growing inside her body.

Examples

  • She is pregnant with her first child.
  • The pregnant woman attended her prenatal classes.
  • Many pregnant women experience nausea during the first trimester.
  • She looked radiant as a pregnant lady at the baby shower.
  • Her symptoms suggested she might be pregnant.

Usage notes

Commonly used in medical contexts and everyday conversations. It's appropriate in most settings but can be sensitive in discussions about family planning or health.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of the word 'pregnant' as 'pre-gentle' — the gentleness needed during pregnancy.

Collocations

  • be
  • look
  • become
  • heavily
  • very
  • visibly
  • by
  • with
  • six weeks, three months, etc. pregnant

Synonyms

  • expecting
  • with child
  • in a family way
  • gravid

Antonyms

  • infertile
  • non-pregnant

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'expecting' — both mean similar things but may fit different contexts.
  • Using to describe people who are not pregnant.
  • Mixing up with similar sounding words like 'present' or 'presents'.