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Pneumonia

UK //njuːˈməʊnɪə//US //nuˈmoʊniə//

Definition

A lung infection that causes inflammation and filling of the alveoli with fluid.

In simple words: A serious lung infection that makes it hard to breathe.

Examples

  • The doctor diagnosed him with pneumonia after the x-ray.
  • Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
  • Symptoms of pneumonia often include coughing and fever.
  • Children and elderly people are more susceptible to pneumonia.
  • She was hospitalized due to severe pneumonia and respiratory distress.

Usage notes

Used in medical contexts. Avoid casual conversations due to its seriousness. Appropriate in healthcare and academic discussions, but less so in everyday conversation.

Grammar pattern

countable noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'new-moan-ya' - imagine moaning in bed due to being sick.

Collocations

  • treat pneumonia
  • diagnose pneumonia
  • contract pneumonia
  • symptoms of pneumonia
  • chronic pneumonia

Synonyms

  • lung infection
  • pulmonary infection
  • pneumonitis
  • chest infection
  • respiratory infection

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'pneumonitis', which is a different lung condition.
  • Mispronunciation of the word, often omitting the 'p'.
  • Using it as an uncountable noun when it is countable in some contexts.