Contagious: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'contagious' primarily to describe diseases that can be spread from one person to another through direct or indirect contact. It often signifies that the disease can spread easily.

• Chickenpox is highly contagious, so please avoid close contact with others if you have it.
• His laughter was so contagious that soon the whole room was giggling.

Use 'infectious' to describe diseases caused by organisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that spreads quickly, like laughter or enthusiasm.

• The flu is an infectious disease caused by influenza viruses.
• Her enthusiasm for the project was infectious, and soon everyone was excited to contribute.

Use 'transmittable' to refer to the ability of a disease or condition to be passed from one person to another. This term is often used in a formal or technical context.

• HIV is transmittable through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to child during birth.
• They discussed the various transmittable factors in the spread of the infection.

Use 'communicable' mainly in scientific or medical contexts to describe diseases that can be transmitted from one person to another. It is often used in formal or academic settings.

• Tuberculosis is a communicable disease that requires proper treatment to prevent spreading.
• The World Health Organization tracks communicable diseases globally.

Used when talking about diseases or emotions that can easily spread from one person to another.

• The flu is highly contagious and can spread quickly in schools.
• Her laughter was contagious, and soon everyone in the room was laughing.

Refers to diseases that can be transmitted through bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. Also used metaphorically for positive emotions.

• Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria.
• His enthusiasm was infectious and motivated everyone on the team.

Used generally to describe something that is moving or extending to a wider area, such as rumors, ideas, or diseases.

• The wildfire is spreading rapidly across the forest.
• False information about the new policy is spreading on social media.

Used primarily in medical contexts to describe diseases or conditions that can be passed from one individual to another.

• HIV is a transmittable virus that can be spread through blood and other body fluids.
• Some forms of hepatitis are transmittable through contaminated food and water.