Incision: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in a medical or surgical context, typically for precise cuts made during an operation or medical procedure.

• The surgeon made an incision just below the rib cage.
• The doctor carefully performed an incision to remove the tumor.

General term for any type of break or opening in the skin, can be minor or serious and used in everyday situations.

• She accidentally got a cut while chopping vegetables.
• He has a small cut on his fingertip.

Describes a deep cut or tear in the skin or flesh, usually more severe and in a medical context.

• The accident resulted in a severe laceration on his forehead.
• She needed stitches to close the laceration on her hand.

Refers to a deep, long, and usually serious wound, often caused by something sharp and often has a more dramatic or violent connotation.

• He sustained a gash on his leg from the sharp rock.
• The glass shard left a deep gash on her arm.

Indicates a long, sweeping, and sometimes violent cut, often used in the context of attacks or accidents.

• He used a knife to slash open the box.
• The attacker made a slash at his victim with a knife.