B2noun10K+

Disorder

UK /["/dɪsˈɔːdə(r)/"]/US /["/dɪsˈɔːrdər/"]/

Definition

a condition or illness that causes problems with the way part of the body or brain works

In simple words: A problem that disrupts normal functioning.

Examples

  • She was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder that affects her daily life.
  • The hospital specializes in treating eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia.
  • After the earthquake, the entire city was in a state of disorder and confusion.
  • Disorder in the classroom makes it difficult for students to concentrate.
  • The police arrived to restore order after the public disorder escalated.

Usage notes

Used in both medical and everyday contexts to describe issues that cause chaos or dysfunction. It's more formal in medical settings, while in everyday conversation, it may refer to general messiness or lack of order.

Grammar pattern

disorder + object

Memory hint

Think of 'dis-order' as something out of order or not in its place.

Collocations

  • serious
  • severe
  • chronic
  • have
  • suffer from
  • develop
  • affect something
  • disorder of
  • complete
  • throw something into
  • in disorder
  • a state of disorder
  • serious
  • widespread
  • violent
  • outbreak
  • create
  • lead to
  • quell

Synonyms

  • chaos
  • confusion
  • malady
  • condition
  • sickness

Antonyms

  • order
  • organization
  • neatness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'disorderly' which describes behavior rather than a condition.
  • Using 'disorder' when 'issue' is more appropriate.
  • Not recognizing its use in both medical and non-medical contexts.