B2noun1K

Pill

UK /["/pɪl/"]/US /["/pɪl/"]/

Definition

a small flat round piece of medicine that you swallow whole, without biting it

In simple words: A small round object that you swallow to get medicine.

Examples

a vitamin pill
Take three pills daily after meals.
**pill-popping** *(= the act of taking too many pills or using illegal drugs)*
The doctor prescribed her some pills to help her sleep.
I was on various pills for my heart condition.
the contraceptive pill
to be/go on the pill
Her doctor put her on the pill at 16.
The election defeat was a bitter pill for the party to swallow.

Usage notes

Used in everyday conversation when discussing medication. Not suitable for formal writing. Avoid using in contexts where illegal drugs are the focus.

Grammar pattern

take + pill

Memory hint

Think of 'pill' like a 'chill' for your sickness—both have the 'ill' sound.

Collocations

diet
sleeping
vitamin
bottle
pop
swallow
take
birth-control
contraceptive
abortion
be on
go on
use

Synonyms

tablet
capsule
medication
medicine
dose

Antonyms

cure
remedy

Common mistakes

Confused with 'tablet' which can refer to a larger form of medication.
Misusing 'pill' in contexts related to food or non-medical substances.
Mixing up singular and plural forms, saying 'pills' when referring to one.