A2noun2K

Illness

UK /["/ˈɪlnəs/"]/US /["/ˈɪlnəs/"]/

Definition

the state of being physically or mentally ill

In simple words: Being sick or not healthy.

Examples

  • The doctor said my illness will take a few weeks to heal.
  • Many people suffered from a serious illness during the outbreak.
  • She missed work because of her sudden illness last week.
  • Mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of age.
  • They are researching ways to cure chronic illness.

Usage notes

Commonly used in both spoken and written English. Appropriate in medical contexts and everyday conversations. Avoid using in slang or very casual settings.

Grammar pattern

illness + (noun)

Memory hint

Think of 'ill' as someone who is unwell—they have an 'illness'.

Collocations

  • deadly
  • fatal
  • incurable
  • bout
  • episode
  • experience
  • have
  • suffer
  • affect somebody
  • afflict
  • plague somebody
  • after illness
  • because of illness
  • due to illness
  • the onset of an illness
  • deadly
  • fatal
  • incurable
  • bout
  • episode
  • experience
  • have
  • suffer
  • affect somebody
  • afflict
  • plague somebody
  • after illness
  • because of illness
  • due to illness
  • the onset of an illness

Synonyms

  • sickness
  • disease
  • ailment
  • disorder
  • condition

Antonyms

  • health
  • wellness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'disease' — 'illness' often refers to a temporary state, while 'disease' is more permanent.
  • Using 'illness' when 'condition' is more appropriate for chronic health issues.
  • Mispronouncing as 'illnes' instead of 'ill-ness'.