B2noun 5K

Addiction

UK /["/əˈdɪkʃn/"]/ US /["/əˈdɪkʃn/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

the condition of being unable to stop using or doing something as a habit, especially something harmful

Listen to definition

In simple words: A strong need to keep using something, especially drugs or alcohol.

Examples

• cocaine addiction
• He is now fighting his addiction to alcohol.
• an addiction to TV game shows/social media/gambling
• She stole money from her parents to feed her addiction.
• He was struggling to beat his heroin addiction.
• She had an addiction to heroin.

Usage notes

Use in discussions about health, behavior, or recovery. Avoid in formal legal contexts where specific terminology for substance use is preferred.

Grammar pattern

addiction + to + object

Memory hint

Think of 'add' in addiction; you're adding something you crave to your life.

Collocations

• alcohol
• cocaine
• drug
• become
• turn into
• have
• addiction to

Synonyms

• dependency
• habit
• compulsion
• obsession
• craving

Antonyms

• detachment
• independence

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'habit' which is less severe than addiction.
• Using 'addict' as a verb instead of a noun.
• Saying 'addiction of' instead of 'addiction to'.