C1nounformal2K

Prescription

UK /["/prɪˈskrɪpʃn/"]/US /["/prɪˈskrɪpʃn/"]/

Definition

an official piece of paper on which a doctor writes the type of medicine you should have, and which enables you to get it from a chemist's

In simple words: A written order from a doctor for medicine.

Examples

  • The doctor wrote a prescription for antibiotics to treat the infection.
  • You need a prescription to buy this medication legally.
  • The prescription guidelines have changed to reduce misuse.
  • Due to the new prescription laws, you must have a valid document before purchasing the drug.
  • In legal terms, the prescription refers to the limitation period after which claims expire.
  • Her property rights were protected by prescription after decades of continuous possession.

Usage notes

Used in medical contexts, often in pharmacies or doctor's offices. Generally appropriate in formal conversations and writing, but less so in casual settings.

Grammar pattern

prescription + for + medication

Memory hint

Think of 'press' and 'script' — a script to press play on your health.

Collocations

  • medical
  • free
  • repeat
  • give somebody
  • write
  • write out
  • charges
  • cost
  • benefit
  • by prescription
  • on prescription
  • without (a) prescription
  • medical
  • free
  • repeat
  • give somebody
  • write
  • write out
  • charges
  • cost
  • benefit
  • by prescription
  • on prescription
  • without (a) prescription

Synonyms

  • medication order
  • Rx
  • medical prescription
  • doctor's order

Antonyms

  • over-the-counter
  • non-prescription

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'subscription' when discussing services.
  • Using 'prescription' in informal contexts where simpler words would suffice.
  • Incorrectly spelling it as 'prescripton'.