B2noun2K

Ambulance

UK /["/ˈæmbjələns/"]/US /["/ˈæmbjələns/"]/

Definition

a vehicle with special equipment, used for taking sick or injured people to a hospital

In simple words: A vehicle that takes sick or injured people to the hospital.

Examples

  • **Call an ambulance**!
  • the **ambulance service**
  • The **ambulance crew** rushed her to the hospital.
  • An ambulance was sent to the scene of the accident.
  • Don't worry—the ambulance is on its way.
  • He was put into an ambulance and taken away.
  • He went in the ambulance with his father.

Usage notes

Use 'ambulance' when referring to the emergency vehicle. It is appropriate in medical contexts but not in casual conversations unless discussing emergencies.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'amble' — imagine someone walking slowly, and an 'ambulance' quickly driving to help them.

Collocations

  • air
  • field
  • land
  • call (for)
  • get
  • phone (for)
  • be on its way
  • arrive
  • come
  • service
  • crew
  • personnel
  • by ambulance
  • in an/​the ambulance

Synonyms

  • emergency vehicle
  • medic van
  • patient transport

Antonyms

  • private vehicle
  • taxi
  • car

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'ambulant', which means able to walk.
  • 'Ambulance' mispronounced, often omitting the second syllable.
  • Using 'ambulance' instead of 'paramedic' when referring to the medical personnel.