Chronically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⏳
chronically
[ˈkrɒnɪkli ]
Definition
medical condition
Chronically is an adverb that refers to a condition or situation that persists over a long period of time or is constantly recurring. It is often used in a medical context to describe diseases or pain that are enduring rather than temporary. For example, chronic illnesses are those that last for three months or more and may never go away completely. Additionally, in a broader context, it can imply habitual behavior or traits in individuals.
Synonyms
constantly, habitually, persistently, repeatedly.
Examples of usage
- She suffers from chronic pain.
- He is a chronically late person.
- Chronic stress can lead to serious health issues.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Health
- Chronic conditions, like asthma or arthritis, can often be managed but not usually cured, affecting daily life for many individuals.
- The World Health Organization defines chronic disease as one lasting three months or more, highlighting its ongoing nature.
- Lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, can significantly impact the management of chronic conditions.
Psychology
- Chronic stress can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and weakened immune functions.
- A person dealing with chronic anxiety may feel anxious often, not just from specific situations but as part of daily life.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapies are often recommended for managing the psychological effects of chronic stress and anxiety.
Culture and Literature
- Chronicling events has been a way for societies to remember their history, as seen in famous chronicles like 'The Chronicle of Nestor.'
- In literature, chronicling can be a narrative style that presents events over long periods, often reflecting ongoing themes in a character's life.
- Many cultures maintain chronicles as historical records, documenting important events and societal changes over time.
Origin of 'chronically'
Main points about word origin
- 'Chronic' comes from the Greek word 'khronikos,' meaning 'of time,' relating to how long something lasts.
- The prefix 'chrono-' refers to time, which helps explain why we use it to describe long-lasting issues.
- In English, 'chronic' has been used since the late 19th century to describe long-term illnesses.
The term 'chronically' is derived from the word 'chronic', which comes from the Greek word 'khronios', meaning 'lasting a long time', which is rooted in 'khronos', meaning 'time'. The use of 'chronic' in English dates back to the early 17th century, originally describing diseases that are long-lasting and difficult to eradicate. The adverbial form, 'chronically', began to appear in medical literature in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, 'chronically' has expanded in usage beyond medicine to describe any persistent condition or behavior. Its application in everyday language has increased as healthcare has evolved, highlighting the importance of understanding long-term conditions not only in physical health but also in mental health and lifestyle choices.