Unwell Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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unwell
[ŹnĖwÉl ]
Definitions
feeling physically or mentally unwell
Not feeling physically or mentally well; sick or ill.
Synonyms
ailing, ill, sick, under the weather.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unwell |
Generally used to describe someone not feeling well but not necessarily seriously ill. It is polite and neutral.
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| sick |
Informal term for someone who is not feeling well. It can refer to both minor and more serious conditions.
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| ill |
Commonly used to describe someone who is sick, can be serious or minor, generally more formal than 'sick'.
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| under the weather |
Informal and idiomatic way to say someone is not feeling well, usually implies a minor condition.
|
| ailing |
Often used to describe someone suffering from a long-term or serious illness, sometimes implies something more severe or chronic.
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Examples of usage
- I've been feeling unwell for the past few days.
- She looked pale and unwell.
not in good health
In poor physical or mental health; unhealthy.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| unwell |
This word is often used to describe a temporary state of not feeling good and is commonly used in everyday conversation.
|
| unhealthy |
Used to describe a state of poor health, often suggesting long-term issues, unhealthy lifestyle choices, or physical conditions.
|
| poorly |
Commonly used in British English, this word indicates a mild, temporary illness or discomfort, often used informally.
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| sickly |
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.
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Examples of usage
- He appears unwell and could use some rest.
- The unwell patient was immediately taken to the hospital.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling unwell can be linked to both physical and mental health, often affecting mood, energy levels, and overall well-being.
- Research shows that experiencing prolonged stress can lead to feeling unwell, both physically and emotionally.
- Psychosomatic symptoms, where emotional problems manifest as physical illness, are common in individuals feeling unwell.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, expressing that one feels unwell can foster community support, highlighting societal empathy towards sickness.
- Certain cultures may have specific rituals or customs for taking care of someone who feels unwell, showcasing a collective approach to health.
- Folklore often includes remedies or traditional practices to help those who are unwell, emphasizing cultural beliefs about healing.
Pop Culture
- The idea of feeling unwell is a common theme in literature and film, often leading to transformative journeys for characters.
- Songs sometimes reflect the feeling of being unwell, portraying emotional struggles through lyrics and melodies, providing listeners with a sense of solidarity.
- From movies to books, many narratives explore the journey of overcoming illness, highlighting personal growth and resilience while being unwell.
Origin of 'unwell'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'unwell' combines the prefix 'un-' meaning not, with 'well', which comes from Old English 'wela', meaning 'in good health'.
- The usage of 'unwell' dates back to the 14th century, highlighting a long history in the English language.
- Interestingly, 'well' in this context can also relate to being in a happy state, whereas 'unwell' serves as the contrast in both health and mood.
The word 'unwell' originated from Middle English 'unwel', meaning not in good health. The prefix 'un-' signifies the negative, while 'well' refers to a state of health or being in good condition. Over time, the term evolved to its current usage in the English language, describing a state of being physically or mentally unwell.