What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sicker
Example
She felt sicker after taking the new medication. [sicker: comparative adjective]
Example
He looked sicker than he did yesterday. [sicker: comparative adjective]
ill
Example
I am feeling ill and need to rest. [ill: adjective]
Example
She has been ill for several weeks and needs to see a doctor. [ill: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ill is more commonly used than sicker in everyday language. Ill is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while sicker is less common and refers to a more severe or serious condition.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sicker and ill?
Ill is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while sicker is less common and may be considered more informal.
