prescription

word

/pɹəsˈkɹɪpʃən/
pri-SKRIP-shuhn
/pɹɪskɹˈɪpʃən/
pri-SKRIP-shuhn

Definition

A prescription is an official order from a doctor or other medical professional that says what medicine a person should get or use. It can also mean the written document itself.

Usage & Nuances

Most commonly used in medical contexts: 'fill a prescription', 'a prescription for antibiotics', 'prescription medication/glasses'. In everyday English, people often say 'doctor's note' only for absence/excuse notes, not for medicine. 'Recipe' is for cooking, not medicine.

Example Sentences

The doctor gave me a prescription for cough medicine.

basic

You need a prescription to buy this medicine.

basic

I left my prescription at home.

basic

Can you drop this prescription off at the pharmacy for me?

natural

My insurance doesn't cover that prescription.

natural

I still have to pick up my prescription before the pharmacy closes.

natural