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.
After Stephen's death, Judith vowed to become a nurse and devoted her life to the care of sick and terminally ill children.
From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026
Even if someone does become ill, it takes time for Ebola to progress from “dry” symptoms to highly contagious “wet” symptoms.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026
The premature absence of millions of able-bodied men from our workforce, combined with the continuing retirement of the Baby Boomers and significant reductions in immigration, bodes ill for the country.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026
While ill, they have to beg doctors to believe them and somehow assemble their own care team to try to help them live with a disease that has so far outfoxed the best minds worldwide.
From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026
Her dress was ill fitting, snug across the shoulders and loose around the middle.
From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood
