Which one is correct?
"poor health" or "ill health"?

Question

Which one is correct?
"poor health" or "ill health"?

'Poor health' is a more casual and everyday way to describe a person's physical condition or state of health.

Examples:

His poor health prevented him from enjoying outdoor activities.
The lack of exercise contributed to her poor health.
The community health center provides services for those in poor health.
She was advised to improve her diet to address her poor health.
The doctor recommended regular check-ups to monitor his poor health.

Alternatives:

ill health
unwell
sickness
health issues
medical condition

The term 'ill health' is often used in formal or medical contexts to describe a person's poor physical condition or state of health.

Examples:

The patient was admitted to the hospital due to his ill health.
Her constant fatigue was a sign of her ill health.
The company offers benefits to employees who are unable to work due to ill health.
The government is concerned about the rising rates of ill health in the population.
His ill health prevented him from participating in the marathon.

Alternatives:

poor health
unwell
sickness
health issues
medical condition

Both 'ill health' and 'poor health' are correct phrases used to describe a state of not being well. 'Ill health' is more formal and traditional, while 'poor health' is more commonly used in everyday language. Both phrases convey the same meaning, but 'ill health' may sound a bit more serious or clinical.

Last Updated: March 30, 2024

TextRanch: The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

One of our experts will correct your English.