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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
an acute onset
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "an acute onset" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in medical contexts to describe a sudden and severe beginning of symptoms or a condition. Example: "The patient experienced an acute onset of chest pain, prompting immediate medical attention."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
58 human-written examples
Delirium typically manifests as a constellation of symptoms with an acute onset and a fluctuating course.
Science
In addition, angioedema has an acute onset with short duration whereas amyloidosis is chronic.
Science
TGA is characterized by an inability to form new memories, with an acute onset of anterograde and retrograde amnesia that lasts 1 to 24 hours [5 12].
With regard to the mode of onset, five patients had an acute onset, one patient had thunderclap onset, and one patient had a gradual and progressive onset.
An 8-year-old boy was admitted to our neurological unit due to an acute onset of left hemiparesis developed after a febrile episode.
The clinical presentation may greatly vary, although the diagnosis should be considered in the case of an acute onset of odynophagia during or after eating [24].
Science
During those 3 months, we documented whether patients had recurrent TIA or stroke, defined as an acute onset of transient (<24 h) or permanent new focal neurological deficits of cerebral origin without haemorrhage on CT or MRI.
Science
We recently encountered a case of a patient admitted into our ward diagnosed to have an acute onset of cardiac tamponade via point of care ultrasound (POCUS) performed by the author, a non-radiologist.
Science
This form of psoriasis is characterized by an acute onset of numerous pustules on top of tender red skin.
Wiki
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
2 human-written examples
Diagnostic work-up should include urinalysis and kidney function tests in patients with an acute-onset uveitis with nongranulomatous or granulomatous features.
He was then discharged with a capsule endoscopy scheduled as an outpatient but returned when he developed an acute-onset generalized abdominal pain.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing a medical condition or event, use "an acute onset" to emphasize the sudden and often severe beginning of symptoms or a situation. This is particularly useful in medical reports or when communicating with healthcare professionals.
Common error
Avoid using "an acute onset" when describing conditions that develop gradually over time. "Acute" refers to a sudden and often severe beginning, while "chronic" describes long-lasting or recurring conditions. For gradual conditions, use terms like "gradual development" or "progressive onset" instead.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
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Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "an acute onset" functions as a noun phrase, where "acute" modifies the noun "onset". It typically indicates a sudden and severe beginning of a condition, symptom, or event. Ludwig's examples show its common usage in medical and scientific literature.
Frequent in
Science
93%
Wiki
7%
News & Media
0%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "an acute onset" is a phrase commonly used to describe the sudden and severe beginning of a condition or event, particularly in medical and scientific contexts. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence in formal writing. Alternative phrases include "sudden beginning" and "rapid start". When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the sudden nature of the onset and avoid confusing "acute" with "chronic" conditions.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a sudden beginning
Replaces "acute onset" with a more general term for a quick start.
a rapid start
Similar to "sudden beginning", but emphasizes the speed of the commencement.
an abrupt commencement
Uses a more formal term ("commencement") to convey a sudden beginning.
a precipitous start
Emphasizes the steep or sudden nature of the beginning.
a quick initiation
Focuses on the speed with which something is initiated.
an immediate emergence
Highlights the instantaneous nature of something appearing or arising.
a swift development
Emphasizes the speed at which something unfolds or progresses from the beginning.
an instantaneous appearance
Stresses that something appears without any delay.
a prompt outbreak
Conveys a quick and sudden eruption or occurrence, often used in medical contexts.
an accelerated inception
A more formal way of saying something begins rapidly.
FAQs
How is "an acute onset" typically used in medical contexts?
"An acute onset" is frequently used to describe the sudden and severe beginning of symptoms or a disease. For instance, "The patient presented with "an acute onset" of chest pain" indicates that the chest pain started suddenly and was likely severe.
What's the difference between "an acute onset" and "a gradual onset"?
"An acute onset" refers to a sudden and often severe start, whereas "a gradual onset" indicates that symptoms or conditions develop slowly over time. They are contrasting ways to describe the beginning of a condition.
What are some alternatives to using "an acute onset" in a sentence?
Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "sudden beginning", "rapid start", or "immediate emergence" to convey a similar meaning without using the exact phrase.
Is it appropriate to use "an acute onset" to describe non-medical events?
While "an acute onset" is most commonly used in medical or scientific contexts, it can be used to describe any event or situation that begins suddenly and intensely. However, ensure the context is appropriate to avoid sounding overly formal or technical.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested