cancer

word

/ˈkænsɝ/
KAN-sur
/kˈænsɐ/
KAN-suh

Definition

A serious disease in which some cells in the body grow in an abnormal and uncontrolled way. It can start in many parts of the body and may spread if it is not treated.

Usage & Nuances

Usually uncountable in general use: 'Cancer is a serious disease.' But we often say 'a cancer' or name a type for specific cases: 'a cancer of the liver', 'breast cancer'. Common collocations include 'diagnosed with cancer', 'cancer treatment', 'cancer patient', and 'survive cancer'.

Example Sentences

Her father has cancer.

basic

Doctors found the cancer early.

basic

She is getting cancer treatment now.

basic

When my aunt was diagnosed with cancer, the whole family was in shock.

natural

He survived cancer, but recovery took a long time.

natural

She volunteers with a group that supports people with cancer.

natural