relapse Definition
- 1a return to a previous state or condition, especially after a period of improvement
- 2a recurrence of symptoms of a disease after a period of improvement
Using relapse: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "relapse" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
After months of sobriety, he suffered a relapse and started drinking again.
Example
The patient's relapse was unexpected and disappointing.
Example
The company's profits showed a relapse after a period of growth.
Example
Her depression showed signs of relapse.
relapse Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for relapse
Antonyms for relapse
Idioms Using relapse
Example
After six months without smoking, she fell off the wagon and started again.
to return to negative behaviors or patterns of thinking after a period of improvement
Example
It's easy to slip back into old habits if you're not careful.
a phrase used to describe a situation where progress is being made, but setbacks occur along the way
Example
We're making progress on the project, but it's two steps forward, one step back.
Phrases with relapse
the process of identifying and managing triggers that may lead to a return to negative behaviors or conditions
Example
Relapse prevention strategies are important for individuals in recovery from addiction.
Example
The relapse rate for patients with this type of cancer is relatively high.
Example
Being around old friends who still use drugs can be a relapse trigger for someone in recovery.
Origins of relapse
from Latin 're-' meaning 'back' + 'lapsus' meaning 'fall'
Summary: relapse in Brief
The term 'relapse' [rɪˈlæps] refers to a return to a previous state or condition, often after a period of improvement. It can refer to a recurrence of symptoms of a disease or negative behaviors, such as addiction or depression. Phrases like 'relapse prevention' and 'relapse trigger' are used to describe strategies for avoiding or managing relapses. Idioms like 'fall off the wagon' and 'slip back into old habits' describe the experience of relapse.