Recovering: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is in the process of getting better after an illness, injury, or stressful situation. It can apply to both physical and mental states.

• She is recovering from a bad case of the flu
• He is slowly recovering after the surgery

Focuses on the recovery of strength and energy after an illness, exertion, or a long period of hard work. Often implies rest and rehabilitation.

• He took a vacation for some much-needed recuperation
• The recuperation period after the illness was vital for her return to normal activities

Emphasizes the process of becoming healthy again and can refer to physical wounds, emotional recovery, or spiritual wellbeing.

• Her wound is healing nicely
• Healing from that emotional trauma will take time

Refers specifically to the period of time spent recovering from an illness or medical treatment. It often implies a need for rest and gradual improvement.

• After his operation, he went to a quiet place for convalescence
• The doctor recommended a month of convalescence before returning to work

Used when someone is in the process of feeling better after an illness, injury, or difficult situation.

• She is recovering from a severe cold.
• The economy is gradually recovering after the recession.

More formal term, often used to describe recovery from an illness or fatigue by resting.

• He went to the countryside to recuperate after the exhausting months at work.
• She needs a few days to recuperate from the flu.

Frequently used to describe the process of becoming healthy again, especially related to physical or emotional wounds.

• It took her a long time to heal after the accident.
• Time helps to heal emotional pain.

Informal term often used in everyday conversation to wish someone well or express hope for their improvement in health or situation.

• I hope you get better soon!
• He is getting better after the surgery.