a terminal diagnosis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a terminal diagnosis" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a medical condition that is expected to lead to death, indicating that the patient has a limited time to live. Example: "After several tests, the doctor delivered the heartbreaking news of a terminal diagnosis to the family."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Not even in the face of a terminal diagnosis.

The Guardian - Books

One response to a terminal diagnosis is wild grasping at a tiny hope.

The Guardian

But, surprisingly, a terminal diagnosis does not mean cover is out of the question.

The Guardian - Money

A terminal diagnosis may also slow down time.

The New York Times

But now, here we were, a terminal diagnosis.

The New York Times

Two weeks later, my father received a terminal diagnosis; hospice caregivers were now on duty around the clock.

The New Yorker

She let the world know that she was living with a terminal diagnosis.

The New York Times

The impact is often greatest at the time of diagnosis and during initial treatment, or when a terminal diagnosis is given.

The Guardian

"Nice cup of tea," people say, when you've watched a vivid car accident or been given a terminal diagnosis, or gone for a walk and it's started raining.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is shocking to read of people and families being unaware of a terminal diagnosis, or of doctors who don't know how to provide pain relief to someone who is dying.

The Guardian

"These are people with a terminal diagnosis," said Dr. Morrison, an assistant professor of geriatrics and a specialist in palliative care, which is treatment meant to control pain and other forms of discomfort.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Provide accurate information regarding treatment options, palliative care, and support services available to patients and families facing "a terminal diagnosis".

Common error

Avoid using overly technical medical jargon when communicating about "a terminal diagnosis" with the general public. Instead, opt for clear and accessible language that is easy to understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a terminal diagnosis" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to the act of identifying a medical condition that is expected to lead to death. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

23%

Books

14%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a terminal diagnosis" is a frequently used noun phrase that refers to the identification of a medical condition expected to lead to death. It's grammatically sound and commonly appears in news, scientific, and literary contexts. While its meaning is clear, it's vital to use it with sensitivity, considering the gravity of the subject. Ludwig AI also confirms that the expression is correct and widely used in a variety of contexts. When writing, be aware of potential errors like using overly technical terms or insensitive language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fatal prognosis

Focuses on the predicted outcome of the illness being death.

a life-limiting illness

Highlights the impact of the condition on the patient's lifespan.

an end-stage disease

Emphasizes the advanced and final phase of the medical condition.

a fatal condition

A more direct way to express the life-threatening nature of the illness.

a deadly disease

Focuses on the lethal aspect of the diagnosis.

a critical illness

Emphasizes the severity and potential for rapid decline.

an irreversible condition

Highlights that the disease cannot be cured or reversed.

a hopeless case

Focuses on lack of treatment success, more informal.

poor outlook

Refers to the grim expectation for recovery or survival.

end of life

General expression to denote approaching death.

FAQs

How do I use "a terminal diagnosis" in a sentence?

"A terminal diagnosis" is used to describe a medical condition with no cure and a limited life expectancy. For example: "Receiving "a terminal diagnosis" can be devastating for patients and their families."

What are some alternative ways to say "a terminal diagnosis"?

Alternatives include "a fatal prognosis", "a life-limiting illness", or "an end-stage disease". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a terminal diagnosis" in all situations?

While "a terminal diagnosis" is a medically accurate term, consider your audience and the level of formality required. In sensitive or informal contexts, softer language like "serious illness" or "life-threatening condition" may be more suitable.

What is the difference between "a terminal diagnosis" and "a chronic illness"?

"A terminal diagnosis" indicates a condition that will lead to death, typically within a defined timeframe. A "chronic illness", on the other hand, is a long-lasting condition that may be managed but not cured, and does not necessarily lead to death.