B2noun2K

Therapy

UK /["/ˈθerəpi/"]/US /["/ˈθerəpi/"]/

Definition

the treatment of a physical problem or an illness

In simple words: A treatment for mental or emotional problems.

Examples

  • He is **receiving therapy** for cancer.
  • Most leukaemia patients undergo some sort of **drug therapy** *(= treatment using drugs)*.
  • **alternative/complementary therapies** *(= treatments that do not use traditional drugs)*
  • new cancer therapies
  • They recommend exercise therapy for patients with chronic back pain.
  • She's in therapy.
  • I went into therapy because my doctor suggested it.
  • the use of hypnosis as a form of therapy
  • a therapy group/session

Usage notes

Use in contexts related to mental health or emotional support. It's generally appropriate in professional settings but can sound too formal in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

therapy + for + ailment

Memory hint

Think of 'the-rap-y' - imagine someone rapping about their feelings in a therapy session.

Collocations

  • alternative
  • complementary
  • occupational
  • course
  • need
  • require
  • seek
  • group
  • session
  • a form of therapy
  • alternative
  • complementary
  • occupational
  • course
  • need
  • require
  • seek
  • group
  • session
  • a form of therapy

Synonyms

  • treatment
  • counseling
  • psychotherapy
  • remedy
  • intervention

Antonyms

  • neglect
  • abandonment

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'therapist' - 'therapy' refers to the treatment, 'therapist' is the person who provides it.
  • Using 'therapy' inappropriately in casual contexts - it may sound too serious when discussing light topics.
  • Mixing up 'therapy' with 'counseling' - while related, they can have different connotations.