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.
Despite the danger it poses, many infected animals never become ill.
From Science Daily • Jun. 11, 2026
There’s no evidence that well-known women using social media and public appearances to sell their audiences on GenAI have any ill intent, or that they’re shills for AI companies.
From Salon • Jun. 10, 2026
In order to avoid Cobolli getting ill, the pair cautiously sat at opposite ends of the interview table.
From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026
A seriously ill seven-year-old took his shot and asked Queen Camilla to present him with a medal while at a Royal tea party - and she accepted.
From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026
At the beginning of the competition, Fischer looked Abraham Lincoln-thin; his cheeks were hollow, and he had deep, dark circles under his eyes, all indicating that he might be ill.
From "Endgame" by Frank Brady
