Meaning & Definition of word "Diagnosis"

Diagnosis

/ˌdaɪəɡˈnoʊsɪs/

noun:

  • 1. The identification of the nature of an illness or other problem by examination of the symptoms.
    • Example: The doctor made a diagnosis after reviewing the test results.
  • 2. The decision reached after a diagnostic process.
    • Example: Her diagnosis of anxiety disorder was confirmed by a psychiatrist.
  • 3. A detailed analysis of a situation or problem.
    • Example: 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 of diagnosis

Meaning: A quick guess about what’s wrong, often made in casual conversation.

Example Sentence: He made a diagnosis of my car troubles just by listening to it.

Meaning: An informal assessment of someone’s mental state or attitude.

Example Sentence: That’s just my diagnosis of his overly competitive nature.