What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
measles
Example
The child was diagnosed with measles and had to stay home from school. [measles: noun]
Example
She developed a rash after contracting the measles virus. [measles virus: noun]
disease
Example
Cancer is a serious disease that requires aggressive treatment. [disease: noun]
Example
He suffers from a rare genetic disease that affects his immune system. [genetic disease: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disease is a more commonly used term than measles in everyday language since it covers a wider range of medical conditions. Measles is a specific illness that is less common due to widespread vaccination efforts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between measles and disease?
Disease is a more formal term than measles, which is more commonly used in informal contexts or medical settings when referring to the specific viral infection.
