en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

"Ill" vs. "sick": are they the same?

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem 23/12/2024, 23:47
English.me team member
Ill and sick. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "ill" and "sick" are adjectives used to describe a state of poor health or feeling unwell.

What is different?

The word "ill" is more formal and commonly used in British English, especially in phrases like "seriously ill," whereas "sick" is more informal and widely used in American English. Additionally, "sick" can also refer to feeling nauseous or can be used more broadly, such as in idioms like "sick of something," while "ill" does not have these extended uses.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for ill) and sick

Examples of usage

Ill
  • She has been feeling ill for days.
  • The ill child stayed home from school.
  • He looks ill and should see a doctor.
Sick
  • I felt sick after eating that food.
  • She called in sick to work today.
  • He got sick during the boat ride.

Recommended posts in Difference

When "incompetent" meets "inept": a dysfunctional duo

When "incompetent" meets "inept": a dysfunctional duo

While both words indicate a lack of skill, "incompetent" often ... Learn more →

"Duplicity" and "deceit": shades of deception

"Duplicity" and "deceit": shades of deception

"Duplicity" specifically denotes deceitfulness by acting in two contradictory ways ... Learn more →

Words in harmony: contrasting "affinity" and "rapport"

Words in harmony: contrasting "affinity" and "rapport"

"Affinity" often implies a natural liking or inherent connection, which ... Learn more →

"Highway" vs. "freeway": a roadway riddle

"Highway" vs. "freeway": a roadway riddle

A "highway" is a broad term used globally for any ... Learn more →