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.
Ryan Harley - one of the main midfielders - was ill that day.
From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026
When Indian defendants were charged with such crimes, jurisdiction shifted to federal or tribal prosecutors, both ill equipped to shoulder the load.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026
Dion has said she was diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome, an incurable autoimmune disorder, and she was forced to cancel her last tour dates due to both the Covid pandemic and ill health.
From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026
Garfield said he owed Baron a debt of gratitude for forcing him to go to the hospital after Garfield fell ill returning from a ski trip in Italy in February 2020.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026
In 1862, she had helped nurse Willie Lincoln, ill with typhoid fever, until his death.
From "Chasing Lincoln's Killer" by James L. Swanson
