disease

word

/dɪˈziz/
di-ZEEZ
/dɪzˈiːz/
di-ZEEZ

Definition

A disease is an illness or medical condition that affects the body or mind and causes poor health. It can be caused by infection, genetics, lifestyle, or other physical problems.

Usage & Nuances

"Disease" is more formal and medical than "sickness" or "illness." It is often used for named conditions like "heart disease" or "infectious disease," while in everyday speech people often say "illness" when talking about feeling unwell.

Example Sentences

This disease can spread quickly in crowded places.

basic

Doctors are studying the disease carefully.

basic

Heart disease is a serious health problem.

basic

No one knows exactly what causes the disease yet.

natural

Early tests can help catch the disease before it gets worse.

natural

They've spent years looking for a better treatment for the disease.

natural