Indisposition: meaning, definitions and examples

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indisposition

 

[ ˌɪndɪspəˈzɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

feeling unwell

A slight indisposition prevented her from attending the meeting. Indisposition can range from mild discomfort to severe illness.

Synonyms

ailment, illness, malaise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indisposition

This word is often used to describe a mild or temporary state of unwellness. It's not usually serious and is often used in formal contexts.

  • He couldn't attend the meeting due to a slight indisposition.
  • She apologized for her absence, citing an indisposition.
illness

Illness is a more general term that can refer to any disease or medical condition, ranging from mild to severe. It is commonly used in both casual and formal contexts.

  • She missed school due to illness.
  • He is recovering from a serious illness.
malaise

Malaise denotes a feeling of general discomfort or uneasiness, often indicating the onset of an illness. It can also imply a sense of dissatisfaction or unease in a broader context.

  • He felt a sense of malaise before the flu symptoms appeared.
  • There's a malaise in the community due to the recent events.
ailment

Ailment is typically used to refer to a minor health issue or chronic condition. It is less serious than illness but can be persistent.

  • She suffers from a common ailment that affects her joints.
  • He went to the doctor to treat a minor ailment.

Examples of usage

  • She called in sick due to a sudden indisposition.
  • His indisposition was evident from his pale complexion.
Context #2 | Noun

unwillingness or reluctance

Her indisposition to participate in the project was a hindrance to its success. Indisposition in this context refers to a lack of enthusiasm or readiness.

Synonyms

disinclination, reluctance, unwillingness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indisposition

Generally used to refer to a mild illness or feeling unwell.

  • She couldn't attend the meeting due to a slight indisposition
reluctance

Implies hesitation or unwillingness to do something, often because of doubt or fear.

  • She agreed with some reluctance to help with the project
unwillingness

Indicates a more definite and clear refusal to do something.

  • His unwillingness to cooperate made the negotiation difficult
disinclination

Expresses a mild lack of desire or enthusiasm towards doing something.

  • He showed a disinclination to answer the questions

Examples of usage

  • Despite their efforts, they could not overcome his indisposition towards change.
  • His indisposition towards public speaking was well-known among his colleagues.

Translations

Translations of the word "indisposition" in other languages:

🇵🇹 indisposição

🇮🇳 अस्वस्थता

🇩🇪 Unwohlsein

🇮🇩 ketidaknyamanan

🇺🇦 нездужання

🇵🇱 niedyspozycja

🇯🇵 不快感

🇫🇷 indisposition

🇪🇸 indisposición

🇹🇷 rahatsızlık

🇰🇷 불쾌감

🇸🇦 وعكة

🇨🇿 nevolnost

🇸🇰 nevoľnosť

🇨🇳 不适

🇸🇮 slabo počutje

🇮🇸 óþægindi

🇰🇿 жағымсыздық

🇬🇪 უწესრიგობა

🇦🇿 narahatlıq

🇲🇽 indisposición

Etymology

The word 'indisposition' originated from the Latin word 'indispositio,' which means a lack of agreement or harmony. Over time, it evolved to refer to a state of being unwell or a lack of willingness. The term has been used in English since the 17th century to describe both physical and mental conditions of discomfort or reluctance.

See also: disposability, disposable, disposableness, disposal, disposed, disposer, disposing, dispossession, predisposition.