indisposed

Everyday

1. (formal, euphemism) Slightly ill, so not able to come or work. tree →
2. (formal) Not willing to do something, as in «indisposed to help». tree →

In the lessons

A polite, formal way of saying someone is ill or unavailable: «The singer is indisposed tonight». It is often a euphemism, so the reason is kept private. In old stories servants say «Her Ladyship is indisposed». Sense 2 is rare and very formal.

Examples

• The head teacher is indisposed today, so the deputy will take assembly. tree →
• The opera singer was indisposed, and her understudy sang instead. tree →
• «Mr Toad is indisposed and cannot see visitors,» said the butler. tree →
• Grandma felt indisposed after the long journey. tree →
• He was indisposed to lend us his bike. tree →
• The captain was indisposed with a cold. tree →

Note

Formal and polite. Noun: indisposition. Not the same as «disposed» (willing). Everyday: unwell, poorly (UK), sick (US). «Indisposed» hides the details, so it is used for privacy.