convalescence

Everyday

Convalescence is the time when someone slowly gets their strength back after an illness or operation. tree →

In the lessons

Used in stories and history (soldiers and patients in convalescent homes), and by doctors and in letters about someone who has been ill. It tells the reader the illness is over but the person is still weak and must rest. Phrases: «a long convalescence», «during his convalescence», «a period of convalescence».

Examples

• After the operation, Grandpa needed six weeks of convalescence. tree →
• During her convalescence she read every book in the house. tree →
• The doctor said a quiet convalescence by the sea would help. tree →
• In the old story, the soldier spent his convalescence in a country hospital. tree →
• Convalescence after flu can take a week or two. tree →
• His convalescence was slow, but he was back at school by spring. tree →

Note

Verb: convalesce (to get better slowly); adjective and noun: convalescent (a convalescent patient; a convalescent home). Spelling trap: «-scence», with sc.