What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
diagnosis
Example
The doctor made a diagnosis of pneumonia. [diagnosis: noun]
Example
The diagnosis was confirmed by further testing. [diagnosis: noun]
examination
Example
The teacher gave us an examination on the material we had learned. [examination: noun]
Example
The doctor performed a physical examination to check for any abnormalities. [examination: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Examination is more commonly used than diagnosis in everyday language due to its versatility and broad usage. However, diagnosis is essential in medical contexts and is a crucial part of identifying and treating medical conditions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between diagnosis and examination?
Diagnosis is typically associated with a formal and technical tone due to its use in medical contexts, while examination can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the field and context.