What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sick
Example
I'm feeling sick today, I think I caught a cold. [sick: adjective]
Example
She had to leave the party early because she felt sick. [sick: adjective]
Example
The news of the accident made me sick to my stomach. [sick: adjective]
unwell
Example
I'm feeling unwell today, I think I need to rest. [unwell: adjective]
Example
He's been feeling unwell for a few days now, he might need to see a doctor. [unwell: adjective]
Example
The heat made her feel unwell and dizzy. [unwell: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sick is more commonly used than unwell in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Unwell is more formal and less common, and is often used in medical or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sick and unwell?
Unwell is more formal than sick, and is often used in medical or professional settings. Sick is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
