Question

Using a dictionary, look up the meaning of the word "acute." Read the full definition, noting the differences of meaning when the word is used in different subjects or disciplines. Then, answer the following questions: What does the word "acute" mean in terms of the medical field? Using this version of the word’s meaning, write a complete sentence containing "acute." What does the word "acute" mean in terms of mathematics? Using this version of the word’s meaning, write a complete sentence containing "acute."

Answer 1

According to the online Oxford Dictionary, the word "acute" has two meanings in the medical field and two meanings in terms of mathematics:

• In the medical field, it is an adjective that refers to 1. a disease or its symptoms severe but of short duration, so it is the opposite of chronic, and it is also used to refer to 2. something denoting or designed for patients with an acute form of a disease. Sentences:

1. An acute inflammation of a joint may be the result of an infection.

2. The hospital is overly crowded and we can not give treatment to acute patients.

• In the mathematics field, acute is also an adjective that refers to 1. an angle that is less than 90°, or to 2. something that is pointed or that has a sharp end.

1. I hate math! I can not even draw well enough an acute angle.

2. Be careful with that spearhead, it has an acute point.

Answer 2

The definition of an acute angle is one that is less than 90 degrees.