What is ailment? Pronunciation and usage in English

ailment means . Learn how to pronounce and use ailment through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of ailment

ailmentnoun

/ˈeɪlmənt//ˈeɪlmənt/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "ailment" in English. It can be tricky for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Sounds:

  • "ai": This part sounds like the "ay" in "say" or "day".
  • "lment": This is where it gets a bit trickier.
    • "l": Pronounced as a regular "l" sound.
    • "ment": This is the key. It's pronounced like "muh-nent" – with a short "uh" sound followed by "nent."

2. Putting it Together:

The entire word is pronounced something like: "ayl-muh-nent"

3. Tips & Considerations:

  • Stress: The stress falls on the first syllable: "AYL".
  • Linking: You might hear it spoken more fluidly as "ayl-ment" because the "l" and "ment" blend together slightly. However, it's best to say the individual syllables for clarity, especially when you’re learning.
  • Regional variations: There might be slight regional differences in how people pronounce it, but the above is the most common and generally accepted pronunciation.

Resources for Hearing it:

  • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce ailment" on Google, and click the audio button.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/ailment/ – This website lets you hear pronunciations from native speakers.

Would you like me to:

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Usage and examples with the word ailment in English

Let's break down how to use the word "ailment" in English. It's a slightly more formal word than "problem" or "illness," and it's used to describe a minor health issue. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Definition:

  • Ailment refers to a minor illness or physical complaint. It’s usually something that isn't serious, doesn't require medical treatment, and tends to be intermittent (coming and going).

2. Usage Examples:

  • Describing a minor problem: “He’s been suffering from a persistent ailment – a slight cough that won’t go away.”
  • To indicate a habitual complaint: "She has a recurring ailment of headaches, often triggered by stress."
  • In a more formal context: "The elderly patient presented with a cluster of minor ailments, including joint pain and fatigue.”
  • Referring to a generalized feeling: “I’ve been feeling a bit under the weather with a vague ailment – just a general sense of being unwell.” (Note: "under the weather" is often used alongside "ailment" here).
  • Describing a common complaint: “Colds and flu are common ailments during the winter months.”

3. Distinguishing it from Similar Words:

  • Illness: A more serious condition requiring medical attention. (e.g., “He has a serious illness.”)
  • Complaint: A general expression of dissatisfaction or grievance – not necessarily health-related. (e.g., “He made a complaint about the service.”)
  • Problem: A broad term for any difficulty or challenge. (e.g., “I’m having a problem with my computer.”)
  • Trouble: Similar to problem, often implying difficulty. (e.g., "He's having trouble sleeping.")

4. Tone & Formality:

  • “Ailment” has a slightly more formal and clinical tone than words like “problem” or “symptom.” It's often used in medical contexts, written descriptions, or when discussing someone’s health in a considered way.

5. Phrases You Might See It In:

  • “Suffering from…” (e.g., “Suffering from a chronic ailment”)
  • “Experiencing…” (e.g., “Experiencing occasional ailments”)
  • “A persistent ailment” (suggests the problem has lasted a while)

Here's a quick table to summarize:

Word Formality Meaning Example
Illness High Serious health problem “She’s battling a serious illness.”
Ailment Medium Minor health issue “He has a persistent ailment – a cough.”
Problem Low Any difficulty “I have a problem with my car.”
Complaint Low Expression of grievance “He made a complaint about the food.”

Do you want me to:

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Synonyms for the word ailment

Practice with vocabulary ailment

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Many older individuals experience minor __________ that, while rarely critical, can significantly impair their daily routines.
  2. The persistent __________ of low productivity within the team required a comprehensive strategic review.
  3. A persistent cough and fatigue are common __________ of the respiratory infection.
  4. Early detection of the autoimmune __________ is crucial for effective long-term management.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following terms primarily describes a minor or recurring physical complaint, typically not life-threatening? a) catastrophe b) ailment c) epidemic d) pandemic

  2. In a discussion about organizational challenges, which word could metaphorically describe a deep-seated and persistent problem? a) innovation b) solution c) ailment d) breakthrough

  3. A general practitioner often manages a wide range of common __________ among their patients, from colds to minor aches. a) surgeries b) ailments c) prognoses d) preventions

  4. The medical team's primary objective was to arrive at an accurate __________ for the patient's complex array of symptoms. a) prognosis b) treatment c) diagnosis d) therapy

  5. After thorough evaluation, the consultant provided a detailed __________ on the probable course and outcome of the chronic condition. a) diagnosis b) prescription c) prognosis d) intervention

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The elderly patient often suffered from small health problems that, while not serious, were a constant source of discomfort. Rewrite using "ailment":
  2. The company's declining profits indicated a deeper, systemic issue within its operational structure. Rewrite using "ailment":
  3. Good hygiene practices are fundamental in stopping the spread of sickness in crowded environments. Rewrite not using "ailment":

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. ailment
  2. ailment
  3. symptoms
  4. disorder

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) ailment
  2. c) ailment
  3. b) ailments
  4. c) diagnosis
  5. c) prognosis

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The elderly patient frequently contended with minor ailments that, though not serious, caused persistent discomfort.
  2. The company's declining profits pointed to a systemic ailment within its operational structure.
  3. Good hygiene practices are fundamental in preventing the spread of illness in crowded environments.

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