mammography: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Medical, technical, formal
Quick answer
What does “mammography” mean?
A medical imaging technique using low-dose X-rays to examine the human breast for diagnosis and screening.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A medical imaging technique using low-dose X-rays to examine the human breast for diagnosis and screening.
The process or practice of conducting breast X-ray examinations, typically as part of a screening programme to detect breast cancer early, or as a diagnostic tool.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling is identical. The term 'breast screening' is a more common lay term in the UK, while 'mammogram' is slightly more common in US everyday use than the full term 'mammography'.
Connotations
Connotations are identical and strongly linked to breast cancer prevention, early detection, and women's health.
Frequency
Frequency of use is similar in both dialects within medical contexts. The abbreviated form 'mammo' is informal and slightly more common in US speech.
Grammar
How to Use “mammography” in a Sentence
undergo + mammographyhave + mammographyperform + mammography + on + patientrecommend + mammography + for + age groupVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “mammography” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The patient was mammogrammed last week.
- Women are invited to be mammogrammed every three years.
American English
- She got mammogrammed on schedule.
- The clinic mammograms hundreds of patients weekly.
adverb
British English
- The tissue was examined mammographically.
- Lesions can sometimes be viewed more clearly mammographically.
American English
- The density was assessed mammographically.
- It is difficult to detect mammographically in dense tissue.
adjective
British English
- The mammographic images were reviewed by two radiologists.
- There is a national mammographic screening programme.
American English
- The mammographic findings were inconclusive.
- She had a baseline mammographic study at age 40.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in healthcare administration, insurance (e.g., 'Coverage for annual mammography').
Academic
Common in medical, public health, and oncology literature and research.
Everyday
Used in health discussions, doctor's advice, and personal health contexts.
Technical
Standard term in radiology, oncology, and gynaecology.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “mammography”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “mammography”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “mammography”
- Using 'mammography' as a countable noun for the image (incorrect: *'I got my mammographies.' Correct: 'I got my mammograms.').
- Mispronunciation: stressing the first syllable /ˈmæməɡrəfi/ instead of the second /mæˈmɒɡrəfi/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Mammography is the name of the imaging technique or process. A mammogram is the resulting X-ray picture, or is used informally to refer to the procedure itself (e.g., 'I'm going for my mammogram').
Guidelines vary by country and risk factors. Generally, screening mammography is recommended every 1-3 years for women starting between ages 40-50. Individuals should consult their doctor for personalised advice.
The procedure involves compressing the breast between two plates, which can cause temporary discomfort or pain for some women. The sensation is brief, lasting only for the few seconds of each X-ray exposure.
It is less effective at detecting cancers in dense breast tissue, can sometimes give false-positive or false-negative results, and involves exposure to low levels of radiation.
A medical imaging technique using low-dose X-rays to examine the human breast for diagnosis and screening.
Mammography is usually medical, technical, formal in register.
Mammography: in British English it is pronounced /mæˈmɒɡ.rə.fi/, and in American English it is pronounced /mæˈmɑː.ɡrə.fi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The mammography came back clear.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'MAMM-al' (like mammal, referring to breasts) + 'GRAPHY' (writing/picture, like photography). A picture of the mammary glands.
Conceptual Metaphor
A technological shield or net (screening) to catch disease early.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of screening mammography?