What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
paresis
Example
The patient was diagnosed with paresis in his left leg after the stroke. [paresis: noun]
Example
She experienced paresis in her right arm after the car accident. [paresis: noun]
hemiparesis
Example
The patient suffered from hemiparesis on his right side after the stroke. [hemiparesis: noun]
Example
She had difficulty walking due to hemiparesis in her left leg. [hemiparesis: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Paresis is a more commonly used term than hemiparesis in everyday language since it can refer to weakness or partial loss of muscle function in any part of the body. Hemiparesis is a more specific term that is typically used in medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between paresis and hemiparesis?
Both paresis and hemiparesis are formal terms that are typically used in medical contexts. They may not be commonly used in informal conversations.