diagnosis
diagnosis Lexical Profile
diagnosis Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The identification of the nature and cause of an illness, injury, or other medical condition through the examination of symptoms and clinical test results, or the formal conclusion reached by such an examination.
"Early diagnosis of the condition significantly improves the effectiveness of the treatment."
A thorough critical analysis or investigation of the cause or nature of a non-medical problem, malfunction, or situation, or the resulting conclusion.
"The mechanic ran a computerized diagnosis to pinpoint the source of the engine failure."
In biology and taxonomy, a concise technical description of the distinguishing characteristics that separate a species or other taxon from related organisms.
"The botanist published a formal Latin diagnosis to establish the newly discovered orchid species."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'diagnosis' with 'prognosis': a diagnosis identifies a current condition or illness based on symptoms, whereas a prognosis predicts the likely future course and outcome of that condition. Also note the irregular Greek plural form, 'diagnoses' (pronounced with a long 'e' sound at the end).
• Rhymes for diagnosis
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 17th century via Modern Latin from Ancient Greek 'diagnōsis' ('a discerning, distinguishing'), from the verb 'diagignōskein' ('to discern, distinguish thoroughly'), composed of 'dia-' ('apart') and 'gignōskein' ('to come to know, perceive').