complete blood count: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2technical/medical
Quick answer
What does “complete blood count” mean?
A standard laboratory test that measures the number and types of cells in a blood sample.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A standard laboratory test that measures the number and types of cells in a blood sample.
A comprehensive diagnostic tool used to evaluate overall health and detect disorders like anemia, infection, and leukemia by quantifying red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, and hematocrit.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage or terminology. The abbreviation 'CBC' is universally used.
Connotations
None beyond the standard medical meaning.
Frequency
Equally common in both dialects within the medical field.
Grammar
How to Use “complete blood count” in a Sentence
The doctor ordered a complete blood count.The lab will perform a complete blood count.Your complete blood count shows abnormalities.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “complete blood count” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The hospital will complete the blood count by midday.
- We need to complete the blood count before the consultant's rounds.
American English
- The lab completed the blood count this morning.
- We'll complete the blood count stat.
adverb
British English
- The sample was analysed completely for the blood count.
- The report was completely compiled for the blood count.
American English
- The test was run completely for the blood count.
- The panel was completely assessed for the blood count.
adjective
British English
- The complete blood count results are pending.
- He reviewed the complete blood count report.
American English
- The complete blood count data is in the chart.
- She ordered a complete blood count analysis.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
N/A
Academic
Used in medical research papers and clinical studies.
Everyday
Used when discussing personal health or medical appointments (e.g., 'I need to get a CBC done').
Technical
Standard terminology in clinical diagnostics, pathology, and haematology.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “complete blood count”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “complete blood count”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “complete blood count”
- Confusing it with 'blood chemistry panel' (which measures different components).
- Using the term 'complete blood test' which is less standard.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'full blood count' (FBC) is a common British English variant of 'complete blood count' (CBC).
In most modern labs, results from a CBC are available within a few hours, often the same day.
Generally, no. A CBC does not require fasting, unlike some other blood tests that measure glucose or lipids.
Its main purpose is to screen for, diagnose, or monitor conditions affecting blood cells, such as anemia, infection, inflammation, and blood cancers.
A standard laboratory test that measures the number and types of cells in a blood sample.
Complete blood count is usually technical/medical in register.
Complete blood count: in British English it is pronounced /kəmˌpliːt ˈblʌd ˌkaʊnt/, and in American English it is pronounced /kəmˌpliːt ˈblʌd ˌkaʊnt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of it as a 'headcount' for your blood—counting ALL the cells.
Conceptual Metaphor
BLOOD IS A REPORT CARD (a CBC gives a grade/status on health).
Practice
Quiz
What does a 'complete blood count' primarily measure?