病気
byōkiA condition of poor health or illness, typically involving physical or mental symptoms.
彼女は風邪をひいて病気になった。
She caught a cold and became ill.
病気の予防には手洗いが効果的です。
Washing hands is effective for preventing illness.
The term is commonly used to refer to any kind of sickness, whether minor or serious.
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Common Usage
'病気' is a general term for illness and is often used in both formal and informal contexts.
⚡Gold Rule
Formal vs. Informal
In formal contexts, '病気' is preferred over '病' (byō), which is more commonly used in informal speech.
📖Word Origin
Composed of '病' (byō, meaning 'illness' or 'disease') and '気' (ki, meaning 'spirit' or 'condition'), originally referring to a condition affecting the body or mind.
📝Usage Notes
In everyday conversation, '病気' is often used interchangeably with '病' (byō), though '病気' is more commonly used in formal contexts.