Diagnosis

/ˌdaɪəɡˈnoʊsɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The identification of the nature of an illness or other problem by examination of the symptoms.
The doctor made a diagnosis after reviewing the test results.
The decision reached after a diagnostic process.
Her diagnosis of anxiety disorder was confirmed by a psychiatrist.
A detailed analysis of a situation or problem.
The diagnosis of the company's financial issues revealed several areas for improvement.

Etymology

From Greek 'diagnosis', meaning 'distinction, discernment'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

second opinion
An additional diagnosis from another doctor to confirm the initial one.
diagnostic test
A test performed to aid in the diagnosis of a disease.
working diagnosis
A preliminary or temporary diagnosis used while tests are still being done.

Related Words

prognosis
A forecast or prediction of the likely outcome of a disease.
symptom
A physical or mental feature that indicates a condition.
therapy
Treatment intended to relieve or heal a disorder.

Slang Meanings

A quick guess about what’s wrong, often made in casual conversation.
He made a diagnosis of my car troubles just by listening to it.
An informal assessment of someone’s mental state or attitude.
That’s just my diagnosis of his overly competitive nature.