chronic
KRAH-nik
/ˈkrɒnɪk/
(Of an illness) persisting for a long time or constantly recurring.
Chronic is the opposite of 'acute' (which is sudden and short-lived). It implies a condition that must be managed over years.
The story behind the word. 'Chronic' comes from the Greek 'khronos', meaning 'time.' This is the same root that gives us 'chronology' and 'chronometer.' A chronic illness is quite literally a 'time illness'—one that stays with you as time passes.
Word relationships
- persistent: Continuing to exist over a prolonged period, but less clinical than chronic.
- inveterate: Long-established and unlikely to change (usually used for habits, not diseases).
- acute: Present or experienced to a severe or intense degree, but usually short-lived.
- temporary: Lasting for only a limited period of time.
Commonly confused with
- severe: Severe refers to the intensity of pain or illness; chronic refers to its duration.
Word family
- chronicity (noun): The state of being chronic.
- chronically (adverb): In a slowly developing or long-lasting manner.
Collocations
- chronic illness
- chronic pain
- chronic condition
- chronic disease
Example sentences
- "Chronic diseases are responsible for 71% of all deaths worldwide." Global health statistics. (World Health Organization)
- "Managing a chronic condition like asthma requires daily medication and lifestyle adjustments." Personal health management.
Memory hook
Think of 'Chronic' as 'Chronological'—it follows you through your timeline. Chronic: Constant over time.
When not to use
Don't use it to mean 'very bad' in a formal context, though it is used that way in slang.
Fun facts
- In the 17th century, 'chronic' was sometimes used to describe a person who was always complaining.
Related words
Explore more words
chronically, recurrent, perennial, long-suffering, habitual, perpetual
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