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ill

[il] / ɪl /




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

Holm explained that the process was viewed as a last resort, and that individuals must be considered significantly ill and have a limited life expectancy before a lung transplant could be deemed appropriate.

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

Nate remembered that James had been ill yesterday.

From I Survived the American Revolution, 1776 by Lauren Tarshis




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