What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
jaundice
Example
The patient was diagnosed with jaundice due to liver failure. [jaundice: noun]
Example
Her skin had a yellowish tint, which was a sign of jaundice. [jaundice: adjective]
icterus
Example
The doctor noted icterus in the patient's medical chart. [icterus: noun]
Example
The icteric sclera indicated liver dysfunction. [icteric: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Jaundice is more commonly used than icterus in everyday language, as it is a more familiar term to English speakers. However, icterus is more commonly used in medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between jaundice and icterus?
Both jaundice and icterus are formal terms used in medical contexts, but icterus is more technical and specific to liver dysfunction.
