Vaccination: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in everyday conversation and general contexts to refer to the process of receiving a vaccine to protect against diseases.

• She went to the clinic for her flu vaccination.
• Vaccination rates are increasing in the community.

More commonly used in medical, scientific, or public health contexts to describe the process of becoming immune to a disease, often through vaccination.

• Public health initiatives focus on immunization to prevent outbreaks.
• The schedule for childhood immunizations is well-established.

Often used in historical or formal contexts, or when referring to introducing a pathogen or vaccine into the body to stimulate immunity. It can sometimes imply a broader or more technical process.

• Inoculation against smallpox was practiced in the 18th century.
• The researchers are working on new methods of inoculation.

Use this term when referring to the overall process of getting a vaccine to prevent diseases. It's commonly used in formal and medical settings.

• Vaccination is crucial for preventing the spread of contagious diseases.
• The clinic is offering free vaccination for children this weekend.

Use this word when talking about the actual substance that is injected to provide immunity against a disease. It is commonly used in both informal and formal contexts.

• The COVID-19 vaccine has been distributed worldwide.
• He studied the development of the polio vaccine in medical school.

This term is more informal and is often used in everyday conversations to refer to an injection of a vaccine or medicine.

• Did you get your flu shot yet?
• She cried a little after getting her shot, but she's okay now.