outpatient
word
Definition
A person who goes to a hospital or clinic for treatment but does not stay overnight.
Usage & Nuances
Used mainly in medical contexts to contrast with 'inpatient' (someone who stays overnight). Common phrases: 'outpatient clinic', 'outpatient appointment'. Not generally used for emergency room visits unless treatment doesn't require admission.
Spanish: paciente ambulatorioPortuguese (BR): paciente ambulatorialPortuguese (PT): doente ambulatórioChinese (Simplified): 门诊病人Chinese (Traditional): 門診病人Hindi: बाह्यरोगीArabic: مريض خارجي
Example Sentences
The doctor sees many outpatients every day.
basic
She is an outpatient and goes home after her treatment.
basic
The hospital has a new outpatient clinic.
basic
Most minor surgeries are done on an outpatient basis these days.
natural
I had to wait two weeks for my outpatient appointment.
natural
As an outpatient, you don’t need to stay overnight—just come in for your checkup and leave after.
natural