Hematoma: meaning, definitions and examples

Utilize 'hematoma' in medical or formal contexts to describe a significant amount of blood that collects under the skin or in a body tissue, causing swelling and a raised appearance.

• The doctor detected a large hematoma in the patient's leg after the accident.
• A hematoma can sometimes require surgical intervention to drain the collected blood.

Use 'bruise' in everyday language to describe a minor injury where the skin turns color but there is no significant swelling or raised area.

• She had a small bruise on her arm from bumping into the door.
• The child came home with a couple of bruises after playing soccer.

Apply 'contusion' in more formal or medical contexts to describe internal injuries to the tissues or organs without breaking the skin, often accompanied by pain and discoloration.

• The MRI scan revealed a contusion on his liver, caused by the fall.
• Athletes are at risk of muscle contusions during intense physical activities.

Use 'swelling' to describe the condition where part of the body becomes enlarged due to inflammation, infection, or injury.

• The bee sting caused a swelling on her hand.
• After twisting his ankle, he experienced significant swelling around the injured area.