Word: Deafness
Definition:
Deafness is a noun that means a partial or complete loss of hearing. This means that a person may not be able to hear sounds at all, or they may only hear some sounds.
Usage Instructions:
- Use "deafness" when talking about the condition of not being able to hear well or at all. - It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Examples:
1. "His deafness made it difficult for him to communicate with others."
2. "Many people with deafness use sign language to express themselves."
Advanced Usage:
- In medical contexts, deafness can be categorized into different types, such as conductive deafness (problems with the outer or middle ear) and sensorineural deafness (problems with the inner ear or auditory nerve).
Word Variants:
- Deaf (adjective): This describes a person who has deafness. For example, "She is deaf and uses sign language."
- Deafening (adjective): This means extremely loud, to the point that it feels overwhelming, but it is not directly related to deafness. For example, "The music was deafening at the concert."
Different Meanings:
- While "deafness" primarily refers to the loss of hearing, it can also be used metaphorically. For example, "deaf to criticism" means not paying attention to or ignoring criticism.
Synonyms:
- Hearing loss
- Impairment (in terms of hearing)
- Deafness can also be described using medical terms like "audiological impairment."
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
- Deaf to: This phrase means not listening to or ignoring something. For example, "He was deaf to the advice his friends were giving him."
- Fall on deaf ears: This idiom means that someone’s words or requests are ignored.