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Lawn2llawn2 Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

"what kind of illness?"

Hi all

I want to ask how to ask someone's illness.

For example my colleage was sick the other day. When she was finally back to the office, I asked her why she was absent the other day. And she replied that she had been sick. Can I ask "What kind of illness did you have?" Does it sound natural to native speakers? Or are there better suggestions?

Thank you so much

Liya
  

Top answer

Hi, A few comments. 'Sick' used in this way usually suggests something minor. But 'illness' usually suggests something more serious In my experience, many people prefer not to be asked direct and specific questions about their ailments.

— Clive

  • Hi, A few comments.
  • 'Sick' used in this way usually suggests something minor.
  • But 'illness' usually suggests something more serious In my experience, many people prefer not to be asked direct and specific questions about their ailments.
  • In a work environment, one often raises the topic casually, and gives the person the chance to say as much or as little as they wish about their health problems.
  • eg Nice to see you back.
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1 Answers
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Hi,

A few comments.

'Sick' used in this way usually suggests something minor. But 'illness' usually suggests something more serious

In my experience, many people prefer not to be asked direct and specific questions about their ailments
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