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.
When Varadharajan fell ill before a performance, their mother persuaded Ilaiyaraaja to take his place.
From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026
During this difficult period Konate was also carrying the burden of knowing his father was seriously ill.
From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026
The U.S. secured agreements with Germany and the Czech Republic to provide treatment in Europe, avoiding risky trans-Atlantic travel for a critically ill patient.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 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
But it was the phrase genetic modification that was making him ill.
From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste
