Contused: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in medical or formal contexts to describe an injury where the skin is not broken but there is damage to the underlying tissue, often accompanied by swelling and pain.

• The athlete was diagnosed with a contused muscle after the game
• The report mentioned a contused area on the patient's leg

Commonly used in everyday language to describe a mark on the skin caused by a blow or bump that breaks the underlying blood vessels, leading to discoloration and tenderness.

• She had a bruised arm after bumping into the table
• He noticed a bruised spot on his knee after the fall

A broad term that can be used to describe any kind of harm or damage to the body, which can include cuts, bruises, contusions, or fractures. It carries a neutral to negative connotation.

• The player was injured during the match and had to be taken off the field
• An injured worker received first aid after the accident

This term is more general and can refer to any change in color, not necessarily caused by an injury. It can be used to describe skin, objects, or other surfaces that have changed color.

• The fruit was discolored due to prolonged exposure to sunlight
• She observed that her skin looked discolored after the treatment

Usually employed in medical or formal settings to describe an injury involving damage to soft tissues without breaking the skin.

• The patient presented with a contused muscle.
• After the accident, her arm was severely contused but not broken.

Commonly used in everyday language to describe a mark on the skin caused by blood under the surface due to impact.

• I bumped into the table and got a bruise on my thigh.
• He had a big bruise after falling off his bike.

Often used to describe more serious or significant harm to the body, and can be found in both everyday and formal language.

• He injured his leg in the football match.
• She was injured in a car accident.

A general term used in a variety of contexts to describe pain or injury, both physical and emotional.

• She hurt her ankle while running.
• His words really hurt me.