Acute Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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acute
[əˈkjuːt ]
Definitions
medical term
having a sudden onset, sharp rise, and short duration; intense or severe
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| acute |
Use this when describing something very serious, often sudden, and requiring immediate attention, like medical conditions or problems.
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| severe |
This is best used to describe something very bad or serious, often having negative connotations like weather, injuries, or punishments.
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| intense |
This is suitable for describing something that is very strong or extreme in degree, often referring to emotions, colors, or experiences.
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| sharp |
This can be used to describe something that has a fine point or edge, or strong, clear sensations and changes. It can describe both physical objects and sensory experiences.
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Examples of usage
- The patient experienced acute pain in his chest.
- She was admitted to the hospital for treatment of acute appendicitis.
- Acute symptoms of the illness required immediate medical attention.
- The doctor diagnosed him with an acute infection.
- The acute phase of the disease can be challenging to manage.
senses
having or showing a perceptive understanding or insight; shrewd
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| acute |
Use this word when describing something severe and intense, often in a medical or crisis context. It can also refer to sharpness of the mind or senses.
|
| perceptive |
Ideal for situations where someone demonstrates a deep understanding or keen awareness of things that are not immediately obvious.
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| shrewd |
This word generally describes someone who is sharp-witted and good at making quick and clever decisions, often in a practical or business sense. Sometimes it has a slightly negative connotation, implying cunningness.
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| astute |
This word is best used to describe someone who is clever and resourceful, especially in situations requiring keen judgment and insight.
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Examples of usage
- She had an acute sense of hearing.
- His acute observation skills allowed him to notice the smallest details.
- An acute mind is crucial for solving complex problems.
- The detective's acute intuition helped solve the case.
- Her acute awareness of the situation impressed everyone.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Mathematics
- In geometry, an acute angle is any angle less than 90 degrees, often seen in triangles and polygons.
- Many architectural designs use acute angles for aesthetic appeal, creating a feeling of dynamism in structures.
- Acute triangles, which have all angles less than 90 degrees, are considered the simplest form of triangles.
Medicine
- The term 'acute' describes conditions that come on suddenly and are severe in duration, such as an acute illness.
- Acute pain is an important concept in medicine, often signaling injury or a sudden onset of a medical issue.
- The distinction between acute and chronic conditions helps healthcare professionals determine treatment plans.
Psychology
- Acute stress can arise from sudden life changes or traumatic events, significant enough to impact mental well-being.
- Understanding acute emotions is vital in coping strategies, especially when addressing immediate feelings of anxiety or fear.
- Therapists emphasize managing acute situations to prevent long-term psychological consequences.
Pop Culture
- In films and literature, 'acute' often describes characters who are sharp-witted or extremely perceptive.
- Many popular songs reference the 'acute' feelings of love or heartbreak, emphasizing intensity and immediacy.
- Acute awareness is a common theme in thrillers, where characters must navigate immediate threats or crises.
Origin of 'acute'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'acutus', which means 'sharp' or 'pointed'.
- Over time, it evolved in Middle English to describe things that are sharp or clever.
- Initially used in geometry to describe triangles with angles less than 90 degrees.
The word 'acute' originated from the Latin word 'acutus', which means sharp or pointed. It has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe something sharp, intense, or perceptive. Over time, 'acute' has evolved to encompass various meanings, including medical terminology and senses related to keen perception. Its versatility and adaptability have ensured its continued usage in modern language.