ails: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, literary, or journalistic. Less common in casual conversation where 'is wrong with' or 'is bothering' is preferred.
Quick answer
What does “ails” mean?
To cause pain, trouble, or distress.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To cause pain, trouble, or distress; to be unwell or suffer from something.
Used to describe what is wrong with someone or something, often in a persistent or troubling manner. Can refer to physical illness, systemic problems, or general malfunctions.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Slightly more common in American English, particularly in journalistic or analytical writing about societal/economic problems. In UK English, it's considered somewhat archaic or literary in personal contexts.
Connotations
In both varieties, carries a slightly formal, diagnostic, or investigative tone. Can sound old-fashioned or poetic when applied to a person.
Frequency
Low frequency in spoken language; higher in written analysis.
Grammar
How to Use “ails” in a Sentence
[Something] ails [someone/something]What ails [someone/something]?Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “ails” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The doctor sought to discover what ailed the quiet patient.
- A sense of melancholy ails the protagonist throughout the novel.
- What exactly ails the National Health Service is a matter of fierce debate.
American English
- Economists analyzed what ailed the manufacturing sector.
- A mysterious fatigue ailed the athlete for months.
- No one could pinpoint what ailed the software's performance.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used to describe persistent problems in a company, market, or sector (e.g., 'What ails the retail industry?').
Academic
Used in social sciences or economics to discuss systemic issues (e.g., 'The factors that ail modern democracies').
Everyday
Rare. Might be used humorously or poetically (e.g., 'I wonder what ails the old car.').
Technical
Used in medical or sociological analysis to describe underlying causes of dysfunction.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “ails”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “ails”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “ails”
- Using 'ails' for temporary, minor annoyances (too strong).
- Using it as a noun (e.g., 'He has many ails' – incorrect; use 'ailments').
- Overusing in casual speech.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is relatively uncommon in everyday spoken English. It is used more in formal writing, analysis, or literary contexts.
It can be used for both. While traditionally for people, its use for abstract systems (economy, industry) or institutions is standard in analytical writing.
The related noun is 'ailment', which usually refers to a minor illness or problem.
'Ails' suggests a deeper, often persistent cause of trouble or malaise and is more formal. 'Hurts' is general and can be used for physical or emotional pain of any duration or severity in casual contexts.
To cause pain, trouble, or distress.
Ails is usually formal, literary, or journalistic. less common in casual conversation where 'is wrong with' or 'is bothering' is preferred. in register.
Ails: in British English it is pronounced /eɪlz/, and in American English it is pronounced /eɪlz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “What ails you?”
- “The ailing economy”
- “An ailing industry”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'ails' rhyming with 'nails' – imagine something that pains you as much as stepping on a nail.
Conceptual Metaphor
PROBLEMS ARE DISEASES / AFFLICTIONS (e.g., 'An ailing institution', 'What ails the system?').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the verb 'ails' MOST appropriately used?