What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
infirmary
Example
The school infirmary is staffed by a nurse and can provide basic medical care. [infirmary: noun]
Example
He was treated in the infirmary for a sprained ankle. [infirmary: noun]
Example
The Red Cross set up an infirmary to treat the injured after the earthquake. [infirmary: noun]
ward
Example
The cancer ward at the hospital is always busy with patients receiving treatment. [ward: noun]
Example
The child was placed in the custody of his aunt as his legal ward. [ward: noun]
Example
She was elected to represent her ward on the city council. [ward: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ward is more commonly used than infirmary in everyday language, especially in the context of hospitals and medical care. Infirmary is less common and may be more associated with historical or institutional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between infirmary and ward?
Both infirmary and ward are formal words that are appropriate in professional or academic contexts. However, ward may be more versatile and can be used in legal or political contexts as well.
