Upper-Intermediate — Set 19

Set 19 of Upper-Intermediate covers 5 words: infectious, immune, nutritious, hygienic, unwell. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. infectious · adjective/ɪnˈfɛkʃəs/

   able to be spread from one person or organism to another, especially through direct or indirect contact

   One way to decrease the spread of infectious diseases is emphasizing the importance of washing hands regularly.

   Synonyms: contagious, catching, spreading, transmittable

2. immune · adjective/ɪˈmjun/

   being protected from or not easily affected by a disease

   Being vaccinated against a disease doesn't mean that you are totally immune to it. You can still experience the effects of it.

   Synonyms: resistant, unaffected, unsusceptible, insusceptible

   Origin: late Middle English (in the sense ‘free from (a liability’)): from Latin immunis ‘exempt from public service or charge’, from in- ‘not’ + munis ‘ready for service’. Senses relating to physiological resistance date from the late 19th century

3. nutritious · adjective/nuˈtrɪʃəs/

   containing the nutrients needed for a healthy body

   A bowl of quinoa and roasted vegetables provided a nutritious, satisfying meal packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

   Synonyms: healthy, balanced, wholesome

   Origin: mid 17th century: from Latin nutritius ‘that nourishes’ (from nutrex ‘a nurse’) + -ous

4. hygienic · adjective/ˌhaɪˈdʒɛnɪk/

   clean and free from germs or harmful substances; not likely to cause diseases

   Developing hygienic habits can start from an early age like teaching a child how to wash her hands at age two.

   Synonyms: clean, sanitary, sterile

5. unwell · adjective/ˌənˈwɛl/

   being in a state of poor physical or mental health; being ill

   If you're feeling unwell with a high fever, it's advisable to rest and stay hydrated for a quicker recovery.

   Synonyms: sick, ill