ill
Usage
What are other ways to say ill?
The adjective ill is more mild than evil or wicked, and it appears mainly in certain fixed expressions: ill will; ill-natured. Evil applies to that which violates or leads to the violation of moral law: evil practices. Wicked implies willful and determined doing of what is very wrong: a wicked plan. Bad is the broadest and simplest term: a bad man; bad habits.Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
During this difficult period Konate was also carrying the burden of knowing his father was seriously ill.
From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026
"Heavy fabric protects us from the sun and the hot winds. Yes, it makes us sweat, but it also keeps us from falling ill."
From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026
Some people recover quickly, while others become severely ill or die.
From Science Daily • Jun. 1, 2026
A longtime college friend serves as her healthcare proxy, and Kant maintains a spreadsheet of friends to coordinate visits when she’s ill.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026
In 2010, 8.8 million people fell ill with TB, with 1.4 million deaths.
From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French
