diseases

word · lemma: disease

/dɪˈzizəz/
di-ZEE-ziz
/dɪzˈiːzɪz/
di-ZEE-ziz

Definition

Medical conditions that make people, animals, or plants sick. Diseases can be caused by infections, genetics, or other factors.

Usage & Nuances

Used in formal, medical, and scientific contexts. 'Diseases' can refer to both infectious (spreadable) and non-infectious (not spreadable) illnesses. Don't confuse with 'illness' (general bad health) or 'disorder' (often less severe or less specific). Common collocations include 'infectious diseases', 'chronic diseases', and 'rare diseases'.

Example Sentences

Research has helped us fight many deadly diseases.

natural

Traveling to new countries sometimes exposes you to unfamiliar diseases.

natural

Some diseases are caused by bacteria.

basic

Doctors work to cure many diseases.

basic

People can prevent some diseases by washing their hands.

basic

Heart and lung diseases are common in older adults.

natural