addiction

word

/əˈdɪkʃən/
uh-DIK-shuhn
/ɐdˈɪkʃən/
uh-DIK-shuhn

Definition

A condition where a person cannot stop doing or using something, often something harmful, even if they want to.

Usage & Nuances

'Addiction' usually refers to strong, often harmful, dependence on substances like drugs, alcohol, or behaviors like gambling and gaming. Used in both medical and informal talk. 'Addicted to' is common in phrases ('addicted to sugar'). Can be physical or psychological.

Example Sentences

Internet addiction is becoming more common among teenagers.

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Overcoming addiction can be a long and difficult process.

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Her smartphone addiction is starting to impact her grades.

natural

He joked about his coffee addiction, but he actually drinks six cups a day.

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Many people don't realize they have an addiction until it affects their life.

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He is fighting his addiction to smoking.

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