Unwell: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used to describe someone not feeling well but not necessarily seriously ill. It is polite and neutral.

• She stayed home because she felt unwell
• He has been feeling unwell for a few days

Informal term for someone who is not feeling well. It can refer to both minor and more serious conditions.

• She called in sick today
• He's been feeling sick since last night

Commonly used to describe someone who is sick, can be serious or minor, generally more formal than 'sick'.

• He has been ill for a week now
• The doctor diagnosed her with an illness

Informal and idiomatic way to say someone is not feeling well, usually implies a minor condition.

• I'm feeling a bit under the weather today
• She looks under the weather - maybe she should see a doctor

Often used to describe someone suffering from a long-term or serious illness, sometimes implies something more severe or chronic.

• The ailing patient was transferred to the intensive care unit
• Her ailing health has been a concern for the whole family

This word is often used to describe a temporary state of not feeling good and is commonly used in everyday conversation.

• She wasn't at the meeting because she was feeling unwell
• He had to go home early because he felt unwell

Used to describe a state of poor health, often suggesting long-term issues, unhealthy lifestyle choices, or physical conditions.

• His diet is very unhealthy
• Living in such conditions is unhealthy

Commonly used in British English, this word indicates a mild, temporary illness or discomfort, often used informally.

• He's been feeling poorly all week
• She called in sick because she was feeling poorly

This word has a more negative connotation and implies a chronic or frequent disposition to illness. It is used to describe someone who seems to be unwell often or has a weak constitution.

• She has always been a sickly child
• His sickly appearance worried his mother