Incurable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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incurable
[ɪnˈkjʊrəbəl ]
Definition
medical condition
Not able to be cured or healed; permanent or unchanging. Incurable diseases are those that cannot be treated with current medical knowledge.
Synonyms
chronic, intractable, irremediable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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incurable |
This word is used when talking about diseases or conditions that cannot be cured completely, no matter what treatment is applied. It often carries a negative connotation.
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intractable |
This word is used when a problem or condition is difficult to manage or solve. It is often used in medical contexts but can also be applied to social or technical issues.
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chronic |
Chronic is used to describe diseases or conditions that last for a long time and are often persistent or recurring. It is often used in a medical context.
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irremediable |
Irremediable is used to describe problems or conditions that cannot be repaired or corrected. It often has a formal tone and a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Incurable diseases such as HIV/AIDS pose a significant challenge to the medical community.
- The doctor informed the patient that her condition was incurable and would require long-term management.
- It is heartbreaking to witness a loved one suffer from an incurable illness.
- Despite advances in medicine, some conditions remain incurable.
- The prognosis for patients with incurable diseases can vary greatly.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'incurable'
The word 'incurable' originated from the Latin word 'incurabilis', which means 'that cannot be cured'. It has been used in English since the late 14th century. The concept of incurable diseases has been a part of human history for centuries, with various cultures developing different beliefs and treatments for such conditions. Over time, the understanding of incurable illnesses has evolved with advancements in medical science and technology.