I'm sick

You can use it as a complete sentence. If you feel bad, just say I'm sick. You don't have to give specific details. Most people will understand you need space. You can add very or so for emphasis. For example, I'm so sick sounds more urgent. It is helpful when you need to cancel plans quickly. Just remember to sound a little tired when you say it!

Use it when you wake up with a cough. Use it at work if you need to go home early. It works perfectly in a text to a friend. If you are at a restaurant and feel nauseous, tell your waiter. It is also common in emotional situations. Sometimes people say it when they are disgusted by something. But mostly, keep it for when you have the sniffles.

Don't use it for a tiny scratch or a broken toe. That is an injury, not being sick. In the UK, be careful with this phrase. To a British person, I'm sick often means you are about to vomit. They prefer I'm unwell for general illness. Also, don't say it if you are just tired. I'm tired is different from being ill.

In the US, calling out sick is a standard part of work culture. People often feel guilty about it, even if they are truly ill. There is a funny trope of the 'man flu' where men act very dramatic. Being sick also means you get to eat specific 'comfort foods'. This usually includes ginger ale, crackers, or hot tea. It’s a time when people are usually very kind to you.

You might hear I feel sick or I'm coming down with something. If you are really miserable, you can say I'm sick as a dog. This doesn't mean you are a puppy! It just means you feel terrible. In slang, sick can actually mean something is very cool. If a teenager says your shoes are sick, they are giving you a compliment. Context is everything here!