diagnostic
dy-ug-NOSS-tik
/ˌdaɪ.əɡˈnɒs.tɪk/
Relating to the identification of a disease or condition through examination of symptoms and tests.
While 'screening' is for everyone, 'diagnostic' tests are specific to someone suspected of having a problem.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'diagignōskein', meaning 'to distinguish' or 'to discern'. It combines 'dia' (through) and 'gignōskein' (to know).
Word relationships
- analytical: Analytical is broader, referring to any logical breakdown, while diagnostic is specific to identifying a cause.
- indicative: Indicative suggests a sign, whereas diagnostic implies a formal process of identification.
- prognostic: Diagnostic looks at the current cause; prognostic looks at the future outcome.
Commonly confused with
- prognostic: Diagnostic identifies what is wrong now; prognostic predicts how it will end.
Word family
- diagnose (verb): To identify a disease.
- diagnosis (noun): The identification of the nature of an illness.
Collocations
- diagnostic tool
- diagnostic criteria
- diagnostic test
- diagnostic imaging
Example sentences
- "The physician ordered a diagnostic laparoscopy to investigate the cause of the patient's chronic abdominal pain." Medical procedure
- "Diagnostic accuracy is the ability of a test to discriminate between the target condition and health." Clinical literature
Memory hook
Think of a 'Diagram' that helps you 'Know' (gnos) what is wrong. Know through the symptoms.
When not to use
Do not use for general problem-solving in casual contexts (e.g., 'a diagnostic for my broken toaster') unless you want to sound overly technical.
Fun facts
- The term was first used in English in the late 17th century.
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