indisposition

Everyday

1. (formal) A slight illness, like a cold or upset stomach, that stops you doing something. tree →
2. (formal) Unwillingness to do something. tree →

In the lessons

A stiff, formal or old-fashioned word, often in announcements: «due to the singer's indisposition, the show is cancelled». In everyday speech: «feeling poorly», «under the weather». Phrases: a slight indisposition, due to indisposition.

Examples

• Due to a slight indisposition, the actor could not perform tonight. tree →
• The teacher's absence was explained as a brief indisposition. tree →
• In the old novel, the duchess suffered an indisposition and stayed in bed. tree →
• His indisposition to help was obvious. tree →
• The head teacher's indisposition meant the assembly was cancelled. tree →
• Owing to indisposition, Lady Mary sent her apologies. tree →

Note

Adjective «indisposed» (slightly ill, or unwilling). Very formal; also used as a polite euphemism to avoid saying exactly what is wrong.