ringworm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ringworm" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a common fungal infection that causes a red, itchy rash in a ring shape on the skin. Example: "After noticing the circular rash on his arm, he went to the doctor and was diagnosed with ringworm."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's like treating the ringworm and ignoring the leprosy," says Bode Augusto, who runs a credit-rating firm in Lagos.

The Economist

T. verrucosum causes ringworm in cattle.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The appearance of the skin and hair may indicate dehydration by lack of pliability and lustre; or the presence of parasites such as lice, mites, or fleas; or the presence of ringworm infections and allergic reactions by the skin changes they cause.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Griseofulvin, drug produced by the molds Penicillium griseofulvum and P. janczewski and used in the treatment of ringworm, including athlete's foot and infections of the scalp and nails.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Other human diseases caused by fungi include athlete's foot, ringworm, aspergillosis, histoplasmosis, and coccidioidomycosis.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Until the significant long-term consequences of ionizing radiation were recognized, radiation therapy was sometimes used for conditions such as acne, tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp and nails), and lymph node enlargement, but those uses were abandoned following the discovery of ionizing radiation injury.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Athlete's foot, also called tinea pedis, fungal infection of the feet, a form of ringworm.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Invasions in those parts of the human anatomy are responsible for scalp ringworm (tinea capitis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and athlete's foot (tinea pedis), respectively.

Britannica

It is one of several causes of athlete's foot, jockstrap itch, and other ringworm infections in people.

Encyclopedia Britannica

8 ROCKY CREEK (Paul Nicholls) Has run solidly in both the Hennessy and Argento and takes in the National after Gold Cup bid was thwarted by a bout of ringworm.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The LP featured RZA embodying his Bobby Digital alter ego, an urban quasi-superhero who raps about everything from domestic violence to sci-fi takeovers ("Swarm dorms, sting birds, fling verbs like mean curbs/Strike three, mics flee, I infect 'em with green germs, ringworm/Cuz I'm filthy and guilty, dastardly, mastery").

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing skin conditions, be specific about the location of the "ringworm" infection (e.g., scalp, body, feet) to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid assuming "ringworm" is caused by worms. It's a fungal infection, not a parasitic one. Using the correct terminology ensures accurate communication.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "ringworm" is as a noun, referring to a specific fungal infection. It can also function as an adjective when modifying other nouns, such as in "ringworm infection". As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is grammatically sound and widely recognized.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

38%

News & Media

58%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ringworm" is a common noun referring to a fungal skin infection characterized by a circular rash. As Ludwig AI points out, the term is grammatically correct and widely used, making it suitable for various contexts. While it appears most frequently in encyclopedias and news media, it's crucial to remember it's a fungal infection, not caused by worms. Using appropriate alternatives like "tinea infection" or specifying the location, such as "scalp ringworm", can enhance clarity. Good hygiene and prompt treatment are essential in managing this contagious condition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tinea infection

Refers to the infection caused by the same type of fungus, using the medical term 'tinea'.

dermatophyte infection

Specifically names the type of fungal infection causing ringworm.

fungal skin infection

A more general term describing the nature of the infection.

tinea corporis

Specifically refers to ringworm on the body.

scalp ringworm

Refers specifically to ringworm affecting the scalp area.

athlete's foot

A specific type of ringworm infection affecting the feet.

jock itch

A specific type of ringworm infection affecting the groin area.

tinea pedis

Medical term for athlete's foot, a type of ringworm.

tinea cruris

Medical term for jock itch, a type of ringworm.

circular skin rash

Describes the visual characteristic of the ringworm infection.

FAQs

What is "ringworm"?

"Ringworm" is a common fungal infection of the skin, characterized by a circular, raised, scaly rash that may itch. Despite its name, it is not caused by worms.

How is "ringworm" treated?

Treatment typically involves antifungal medications, either topical creams or oral medications, depending on the severity and location of the infection. Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Is "ringworm" contagious?

Yes, "ringworm" is contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or by touching contaminated objects. Good hygiene practices can help prevent its spread.

What are the different types of "ringworm" infections?

Different types of "ringworm" include tinea capitis (scalp), tinea corporis (body), tinea cruris ("jock itch"), and tinea pedis ("athlete's foot"), each affecting different parts of the body.