What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
syndrome
Example
Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes intellectual disability and distinctive physical features. [syndrome: noun]
Example
She experienced symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and headaches, which led to a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome. [syndrome: noun]
disorder
Example
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by extreme mood swings. [disorder: noun]
Example
The house was in disorder after the party, with empty bottles and plates scattered everywhere. [disorder: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disorder is more commonly used than syndrome in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of medical conditions and situations. Syndrome is more commonly used in medical contexts to describe a specific set of symptoms associated with a particular condition or disease.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between syndrome and disorder?
Both syndrome and disorder can be used in formal and informal contexts, although syndrome may be more commonly used in medical or technical writing.
