medicine
word
Definition
Medicine is a substance used to treat or prevent illness, or the science and practice of caring for people's health. The meaning depends on context: it can mean a drug you take or the medical field in general.
Usage & Nuances
Very common in two main senses: 'take medicine' = use a drug/remedy, and 'study medicine' = train to become a doctor. In everyday English, 'medicine' is often uncountable when talking generally ('some medicine'), while 'a medicine' is less common and sounds more technical. Common collocations: 'prescribe medicine', 'cold medicine', 'traditional medicine'.
Example Sentences
I need medicine for my headache.
basic
She studies medicine at the university.
basic
The doctor gave me some medicine.
basic
Did you remember to take your medicine this morning?
natural
My sister wants to study medicine, but she's still deciding where to apply.
natural
This cough medicine tastes awful, but it actually helps.
natural