contusion

word

Definition

A contusion is a medical term for a bruise, an injury to the skin and soft tissue that causes discoloration but does not break the skin.

Usage & Nuances

Primarily used in medical or formal contexts. In everyday language, 'bruise' is more common. Typical collocations: 'mild contusion', 'suffered a contusion', 'brain contusion' (serious injury). Not used for minor scrapes or cuts.

Example Sentences

The doctor said my leg has a contusion.

basic

A contusion can happen if you bump into a table.

basic

She had a purple contusion on her arm.

basic

He didn't break any bones, just a nasty contusion on his shoulder.

natural

After the game, he found a huge contusion he didn't notice earlier.

natural

"It's just a contusion," the nurse reassured him, "nothing's broken."

natural