scurvy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scurvy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C, or metaphorically to describe something as despicable or contemptible. Example: "The sailors suffered from scurvy after months at sea without fresh fruits and vegetables."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Trapped in the ice for years and afflicted by scurvy, starvation and, possibly, lead poisoning from their poorly preserved tins of food, the men had suffered appalling fates.

The Guardian

Buy from Amazon.com, Amazon.co.ukHIS breath stinking from scurvy, his hair crawling with lice, and starving in his fine clothes, Nikolai Rezanov was as unlikely a suitor as he was an ambassador.

The Economist

Today cooks use it mainly for flavouring: we still have a taste for it, and although fatback or salted hock could substitute for it in most recipes, there is something pleasantly archaic about it even if it was formerly a byword for deprivation at sea, rather like scurvy.

The Economist

As you clearly show, it mostly benefits scurvy politicians, and even scurvier tabloids.William Candler Opatija, CroatiaCory AquinoSIR – I want to respond to your obituary on Corazon Aquino, a former president of the Philippines (August 8th).

The Economist

Housing-blocks, docks and factories stand derelict, utilities have collapsed, suicide and alcoholism rates have soared, and the hospitals are full of patients with tuberculosis and scurvy.

The Economist

(The vitamin C in narwhal skin and blubber helps ward off scurvy).

The Economist

The general joined parliament on a broadly pro-government ticket but moved into open opposition after denouncing the scurvy treatment of the army.

The Economist

DRINKING fruit juice may once have cost British sailors the indignity of being called "limeys", but it also saved them from scurvy, just as liver helps to treat night blindness and unpolished rice prevents beriberi.

The Economist

He was better prepared than most of the prospectors who made the appalling journey up from the sea to the gold fields, but after trudging up the steep passes and building a boat to carry their supplies into the wild, he grew sick from scurvy.

The Economist

In cases of vitamin C deficiency (scurvy), capillary integrity is lost, and blood seeps into the tissues.

Encyclopedia Britannica

James Lind, a British naval surgeon from Edinburgh, recommended fresh fruits and citrus juices to prevent scurvy, a remedy discovered by the Dutch in the 16th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing historical contexts, especially related to seafaring, "scurvy" is the most appropriate and evocative term. For contemporary medical discussions, "vitamin C deficiency" might be preferred for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "scurvy" to describe mildly unpleasant situations. It should be reserved for truly despicable or contemptible behavior, as the historical context of the disease carries a strong negative connotation.

Linguistic Context

The word "scurvy" functions primarily as a noun referring to a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. It can also be used as an adjective to describe something as contemptible or affected by scurf. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, as exemplified in medical and historical contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

27%

News & Media

24%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

17%

Wiki

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "scurvy" is a well-established term in English, primarily known as a noun referring to the disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. It also functions as an adjective to describe something contemptible. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is grammatically correct and contextually appropriate. While its historical and medical contexts lean towards formal registers, its figurative use maintains a more neutral tone. To prevent confusion, especially in modern settings, specify "vitamin C deficiency" for clarity when describing the medical condition. Remember that using "scurvy" figuratively is reserved for truly despicable behavior. It has a high source quality and frequent presence in encyclopedias, news media, and scientific publications, solidifying its importance in reliable English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vitamin C deficiency disease

Replaces the common name with a more technical, descriptive term for the condition.

ascorbic acid deficiency illness

Uses the scientific name of the vitamin and a broader term for disease.

scorbutus

Employs a direct synonym, offering a slightly more formal or archaic alternative.

vitamin C-related ailment

Offers a more general term for health problems linked to lack of vitamin C.

nutritional deficiency disease (related to vitamin C)

Places it within the broader category of diseases caused by diet.

despicable behavior

Focuses on the figurative use of "scurvy" to describe contemptible actions.

contemptible conduct

Provides another way to describe morally reprehensible actions.

low-down actions

Uses an informal term for despicable actions.

mean-spirited deeds

Emphasizes the unkind nature of the actions.

contemptible trickery

Highlights the deceitful aspects of the despicable behavior.

FAQs

What are the symptoms of scurvy?

Scurvy, caused by vitamin C deficiency, presents with symptoms like livid spots on the skin, spongy gums, loosening of teeth, and bleeding from mucous membranes.

How can scurvy be prevented?

Scurvy is prevented by consuming adequate amounts of vitamin C, found in fresh fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits.

What is the historical significance of scurvy?

Historically, scurvy was a major cause of death among sailors on long voyages due to lack of access to fresh produce. Its prevention and cure significantly impacted naval history.

When is it appropriate to use "scurvy" figuratively?

Figurative use of "scurvy" applies when describing behavior that is deeply contemptible or despicable. For less severe situations, consider alternatives like "unpleasant" or "unethical".