What does “Lurgy” mean?
The term "Lurgy" is used colloquially to refer to an illness, usually the flu or a cold. When someone mentions having the "Lurgy", they are indicating that they are feeling sick or unwell.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
I caught the lurgy from my coworker, and now I'm feeling awful.
Example
She's been off work with the lurgy for a week.
Example
If you've got the lurgy, you should rest and drink plenty of fluids.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing the contraction of an illness
I caught the lurgy from my coworker, and now I'm feeling awful.
She's been off work with the lurgy for a week.
- 2Advising someone with an illness
If you've got the lurgy, you should rest and drink plenty of fluids.
He's been bedridden with the lurgy for days.
- 3Discussing the symptoms or severity of an illness
The lurgy is going around the office, and everyone is getting sick.
I've never had such a bad case of the lurgy before.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The term "lurgy" originated in the United Kingdom and is commonly used in British English. Its exact origin is uncertain, but it gained popularity in the mid-20th century and has been used in British slang ever since.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The term "lurgy" is typically used within a sentence to refer to an illness. It is not commonly used on its own without supporting words.
Is the phrase offensive?
The term "lurgy" is not offensive. It is a colloquial term used to refer to an illness, typically the flu or a cold.
Audience for the phrase
The term "lurgy" is commonly used in the United Kingdom and is familiar to native speakers of British English. It is more likely to be used and understood by people in the UK or those familiar with British slang.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The term "lurgy" is specific to the United Kingdom and is primarily used in British English. It may not be widely recognized or understood outside of the UK.
