expectoration

Everyday

1. (formal, medical) Expectoration is coughing up and spitting out mucus (phlegm) from the chest and throat. tree →
2. More generally, it is a formal word for spitting. tree →

In the lessons

A medical word used by doctors when someone has a chest infection or a cold. Old signs in buses and stations once said «No expectoration» to stop people spitting, which spreads germs. In health lessons, it links to germs, coughs and hygiene. Phrases: «cough with expectoration», «medicine to help expectoration».

Examples

• The doctor asked about his cough and expectoration. tree →
• Some cough syrups help with expectoration. tree →
• An old tram sign said «Expectoration forbidden». tree →
• Expectoration in public spreads germs. tree →
• Catch coughs in a tissue to avoid spreading what comes up with expectoration. tree →
• Expectoration is a fancy word for spitting. tree →

Note

Formal or medical; everyday words: coughing up, spitting. Verb: expectorate. Medicine that helps you cough up mucus is called an expectorant.