Pill: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used to refer to any small, rounded, and solid form of medicine taken orally.

• Take one pill daily after meals

Used to describe a small, solid dose of medicine in a flat, often disc-shaped form, made by compressing the ingredients.

• Break the tablet in half and take it with water

Typically refers to medicine enclosed in a gelatin shell, which can be easier to swallow and can contain liquid or powder.

• The doctor prescribed me a capsule for my cough

A general term encompassing all forms and types of medicine, including pills, capsules, liquids, and injections. It is used in both formal and informal medical contexts.

• She takes medication for her diabetes

Generally used to refer to any small, solid medical dosage form that is intended to be swallowed.

• He took a pill for his headache.
• She forgot to take her vitamin pill this morning.

Specifically used to refer to a pill containing hormones that is taken by women to prevent pregnancy.

• She started taking the birth control pill last month.
• The doctor recommended a different brand of birth control pill.

A broad term used to refer to any device, drug, or method used to prevent pregnancy. It can include pills, but also refers to other methods such as condoms or IUDs.

• They discussed different types of contraceptives during the health class.
• She prefers using non-hormonal contraceptives.

A medical term used to specifically refer to birth control pills that are taken by mouth.

• The gynecologist prescribed an oral contraceptive for her.
• Some women experience side effects from using oral contraceptives.

Used metaphorically to describe something unpleasant or difficult to accept or deal with.

• The news about the layoffs was a tough pill to swallow.

Refers to something heavy or difficult to carry, either physically or emotionally.

• Taking care of a sick relative can be a significant burden.
• He struggled with the burden of his financial debts.

Describes severe suffering or difficult conditions, usually extended over a period of time.

• They faced many hardships during the war.
• Economic hardships have hit many families in the area.

Indicates a task or problem that tests someone's abilities, often seen positively as an opportunity for growth.

• The project was a big challenge but also very rewarding.
• He's always looking for new challenges at work.