Medical: meaning, definitions and examples

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medical

 

[ ˈmɛdɪkəl ]

Adjective / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

field of study

Relating to the science or practice of medicine.

Synonyms

clinical, healthcare, therapeutic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
medical

Refers to anything related to the science or practice of medicine, including doctors, illnesses, treatments, equipment, and terminology.

  • She is studying medical subjects at the university
  • The medical team worked tirelessly to save lives
healthcare

A broad term that encompasses all services and industries related to the maintenance or improvement of health, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and wellness.

  • Access to affordable healthcare is a critical issue
  • She works in the healthcare sector as an administrator
clinical

More specific than 'medical', it typically refers to the direct observation and treatment of patients. Often used in the context of clinical trials, practice, or settings such as hospitals and clinics.

  • He has extensive clinical experience with pediatric patients
  • The clinical trial will test the efficacy of the new drug
therapeutic

Describes treatments or practices that help in healing, improving health, or relieving symptoms. It is often used in the contexts of therapies, medications, and procedures.

  • Yoga can be very therapeutic for stress relief
  • The patient responded well to the therapeutic massage

Examples of usage

  • It is important to have a thorough medical examination every year.
  • The medical staff at the hospital works tirelessly to treat patients.
  • She decided to pursue a career in the medical field.
Context #2 | Noun

profession

A person who is trained to diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries.

Synonyms

doctor, healthcare provider, physician.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
medical

Used to describe anything related to medicine and healthcare in general terms, including treatments, conditions, and equipment.

  • She is seeking medical advice for her chronic migraines
  • The hospital has advanced medical equipment
doctor

Commonly used when referring to a person who is trained and licensed to practice medicine, typically someone you visit for medical help.

  • I need to see a doctor about my sore throat
  • The doctor prescribed antibiotics for my infection
physician

A formal term, often used in professional or academic settings, specifically referring to a medical doctor, especially one who is focused on non-surgical treatments.

  • The physician conducted a thorough examination before diagnosing the patient
  • She is a respected physician in the field of cardiology
healthcare provider

A more formal or broad term encompassing not just doctors but also nurses, therapists, and other medical professionals involved in patient care.

  • Your healthcare provider will give you all the necessary information about the vaccine
  • The role of a healthcare provider is crucial in managing public health

Examples of usage

  • The medical attended to the injured hiker on the trail.
  • After years of study, she finally became a qualified medical.
  • Medicals play a crucial role in maintaining public health.

Translations

Translations of the word "medical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 médico

🇮🇳 चिकित्सा संबंधी

🇩🇪 medizinisch

🇮🇩 medis

🇺🇦 медичний

🇵🇱 medyczny

🇯🇵 医療の

🇫🇷 médical

🇪🇸 médico

🇹🇷 tıbbi

🇰🇷 의료의

🇸🇦 طبي

🇨🇿 lékařský

🇸🇰 lekársky

🇨🇳 医学的

🇸🇮 medicinski

🇮🇸 læknisfræðileg

🇰🇿 медициналық

🇬🇪 სამედიცინო

🇦🇿 tibbi

🇲🇽 médico

Etymology

The word 'medical' originated from the Latin word 'medicus' meaning 'physician'. It has been used in the English language since the 17th century. The concept of medical treatment and care has evolved over centuries, with advancements in science and technology contributing to the development of modern medicine.

See also: medication, medicinal, medicine, medicines, medics, paramedic.

Word Frequency Rank

At #739 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.