When it comes to the IELTS exam, particularly the Listening and Reading sections, a strong vocabulary related to healthcare is essential. One word you’re highly likely to encounter is “physician” /fɪˈzɪʃən/. Understanding its meaning, usage, and related terms can significantly impact your performance. Let’s delve into the world of this important word and explore how it can help you achieve a higher IELTS score.
What Does “Physician” Really Mean?
Physician (noun) /fɪˈzɪʃən/ – A medical doctor, especially one who treats people who are ill or injured, rather than one who performs medical operations.
physician|Physician|A physician wearing a white coat with a stethoscope around their neck is examining a patient. The patient is sitting on an examination table.
Here are some synonyms for “physician”:
- Doctor /ˈdɒktə(r)/: This is the most common synonym for “physician.”
Example: “After experiencing chest pains, he immediately scheduled an appointment with his doctor.” - Medical Practitioner /ˈmedɪkl prækˈtɪʃənə(r)/: A more formal term for a doctor.
Example: “The conference brought together leading medical practitioners from around the globe.” - Clinician /klɪˈnɪʃən/: A doctor or other healthcare professional who treats patients.
Example: “The clinician carefully reviewed the patient’s medical history before making a diagnosis.”
Where Will You Encounter “Physician” in the IELTS Exam?
“Physician” is a high-frequency word in IELTS, especially in:
- Listening Section: You might hear it in dialogues about health, hospital visits, or medical consultations.
- Reading Section: Texts about healthcare systems, medical advancements, or public health campaigns often use this term.
Mastering “Physician” for Each IELTS Section:
1. Listening Section:
- Example: “The physician recommended a course of physical therapy to help the patient regain mobility.”
- In this sentence, it’s clear that the speaker is referring to a medical professional who provides treatment.
- Tip: Pay close attention to the context surrounding the word “physician” to understand the specific type of doctor or medical professional being discussed.
2. Reading Section:
- Example: “The article explored the growing shortage of physicians in rural areas and its impact on healthcare access.”
- Here, “physicians” refers to a general category of medical doctors, highlighting a critical issue in healthcare.
- Tip: Look for keywords and phrases that provide clues about the role and responsibilities of the physician mentioned in the text.
3. Writing Section:
While “physician” is less common in Writing Task 1 (graphs/charts), you might use it in Task 2 when discussing healthcare topics.
- Example: “Investing in the training and support of physicians is crucial to building a robust and equitable healthcare system.”
- Tip: Use “physician” when you need a formal and precise term for a medical doctor.
4. Speaking Section:
Although less frequent than “doctor,” you can use “physician” to demonstrate a wider vocabulary.
- Example: “If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms, it’s best to consult a qualified physician.”
- Tip: Focus on using “physician” naturally and accurately within the context of your response.
Useful Collocations:
- Primary care physician: The doctor who provides your general healthcare.
- Attending physician: The doctor who is primarily responsible for your care in a hospital.
- Board-certified physician: A doctor who has passed an examination in a medical specialty.
Idioms and Expressions:
While there are no common idioms directly using “physician,” remember the related expression: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” This highlights the importance of preventative healthcare.
By mastering the meaning, usage, and synonyms of “physician,” you’ll be well-equipped to tackle healthcare-related questions in the IELTS exam. Remember, a strong vocabulary is a key ingredient for success in all sections of the test!