Definition of Acute
Quick Meaning of Acute
Acute describes a sudden, serious illness or health problem that does not last long. It can also describe someone who has sharp perception or understanding.
Detailed Definition of Acute
(Of an illness or medical condition) severe and lasting a short time, or (of a person's senses or mind) sharp and perceptive.
How to Pronounce Acute
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Two syllables: a-KYOOT. Stress the second syllable. The 'a' sounds like 'uh,' and 'cute' rhymes with 'boot.'
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced a-KUTE (rhyming with 'a cute puppy'). Correct: a-KYOOT with stress on the second syllable.
Origin and Etymology of Acute
From Latin 'acutus,' meaning 'sharp' or 'pointed.' Related to the word 'acute angle' in mathematics.
How to Use Acute in a Sentence
Each example shows “acute” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The patient was admitted to the hospital with an acute fever and severe dehydration.”
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“Doctors detected an acute appendicitis that required immediate surgery.”
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“His acute observations about the study results impressed the research team.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Acute
Common Synonyms for Acute
Smart Synonyms for Acute — When to Use Each
- severe
- Emphasizes seriousness and intensity
- sharp
- Highlights perceptiveness or quick understanding
Antonyms of Acute
Common Collocations with Acute
These phrases pair with “acute” in everyday English:
- acute illness
- acute pain
- acute condition
- acute care
- acute phase
Common Mistakes When Using Acute
Even fluent speakers slip up with “acute”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He has been suffering from acute pain for the last five years.
- ✓ Correct: He has been suffering from chronic pain for the last five years.
- Why: Acute pain lasts a short time. Long-term pain is chronic.
- ✗ Wrong: The acute shortage of supplies will continue indefinitely.
- ✓ Correct: The acute shortage of supplies is temporary and urgent.
- Why: Acute implies a short duration, not indefinite continuation.
Words Confused With Acute
- Acute vs Chronic: Acute means sudden and short-lasting. Chronic means long-lasting or recurring. Example: acute pain vs. chronic pain. Compare →
Other Forms of Acute
Frequently Asked Questions About Acute
What is the meaning of "Acute"?
Acute describes a sudden, serious illness or health problem that does not last long. It can also describe someone who has sharp perception or understanding.
How do you pronounce "Acute"?
The IPA is /əˈkjuːt/. Two syllables: a-KYOOT. Stress the second syllable. The 'a' sounds like 'uh,' and 'cute' rhymes with 'boot.'
What part of speech is "Acute"?
"Acute" is an adjective at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Acute"?
Common synonyms include severe, sharp, intense.
How do you use "Acute" in a sentence?
For example: "The patient was admitted to the hospital with an acute fever and severe dehydration."