What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oedema
Example
The patient's oedema was caused by heart failure. [oedema: noun]
Example
The doctor prescribed medication to reduce the oedema in her legs. [oedema: noun]
dropsy
Example
In the past, dropsy was often treated with diuretics. [dropsy: noun]
Example
The patient's dropsy was caused by liver disease. [dropsy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Oedema is the more common and accepted term in modern medicine, while dropsy is an outdated term that is no longer widely used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oedema and dropsy?
Oedema is a more formal and accepted term in modern medicine, while dropsy is a less formal and outdated term that is no longer commonly used.
