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X-ray

UK //ˈɛks.reɪ// US //ˈɛks.reɪ// Pronunciation

Definition

A type of radiation used to create images of the inside of objects, especially the body.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A picture of the inside of something using special light.

Examples

• The doctor recommended an X-ray to check for broken bones.
• After the accident, he had to get an X-ray at the hospital.
• The X-ray revealed a shadow on his lung that needed further investigation.
• She was nervous about getting an X-ray, but it didn’t hurt.
• The technician explained how the X-ray would work before starting the process.

Usage notes

Use 'X-ray' in medical contexts to refer to imaging procedures. Avoid in casual conversations unless relevant.

Grammar pattern

take + X-ray

Memory hint

Think of X-ray as 'X' marks the spot where we see inside!

Collocations

• take an X-ray
• X-ray machine
• X-ray results

Synonyms

• radiograph
• imaging
• scan

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'MRI' and 'CT scan'.
• Incorrectly used as a verb, e.g., 'to X-ray something'.
• Omitting the hyphen in 'X-ray'.