What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
diseased
Example
The diseased tree had to be cut down to prevent the spread of the infection. [diseased: adjective]
Example
The doctor examined the diseased lung and prescribed medication. [diseased: adjective]
Example
The farmer noticed that his crops were diseased and needed treatment. [diseased: adjective]
sickly
Example
The sickly child was always catching colds and flu. [sickly: adjective]
Example
The old man's sickly appearance worried his family. [sickly: adjective]
Example
The garden was filled with sickly plants that needed more sunlight. [sickly: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sickly is more commonly used than diseased in everyday language. Sickly is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while diseased is less common and typically used in medical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between diseased and sickly?
Diseased is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, while sickly is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
