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Heart attack

UK //hɑːt əˈtæk// US //hɑrt əˈtæk// Pronunciation

Definition

A medical emergency caused by lack of blood to the heart muscle.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A serious condition where the heart doesn't get enough blood.

Examples

• He survived a heart attack last year and changed his lifestyle.
• The doctor explained the symptoms of a heart attack to us.
• Stress can increase the risk of a heart attack in some individuals.
• She called for help when he showed signs of a heart attack.
• Heart attack survivors often need to make drastic lifestyle changes.

Usage notes

Used in medical contexts. Avoid casual references when discussing serious health issues. Appropriate in both spoken and written conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone term

Memory hint

Think of a heart that's 'attacked' by blockage.

Collocations

• heart attack symptoms
• survive a heart attack
• risk of heart attack

Synonyms

• cardiac arrest
• myocardial infarction
• heart failure

Common mistakes

• Using 'heart attack' to describe emotional distress.
• Confusing with 'stroke', which affects the brain.
• 'Heart attack' is not used informally.