A1 noun Neutral

hygiene

/ˈhaɪ.dʒiːn/

Hygiene refers to the practice of keeping yourself and your surroundings clean to stay healthy and prevent the spread of diseases. It includes basic habits like washing your hands, bathing, and brushing your teeth.

Examples

3 of 5
1

Good hygiene starts with washing your hands before every meal.

Good hygiene starts with washing your hands before every meal.

2

The clinic must follow strict hygiene protocols to ensure patient safety.

The clinic must follow strict hygiene protocols to ensure patient safety.

3

Don't forget your basic hygiene even when you are traveling.

Don't forget your basic hygiene even when you are traveling.

Word Family

Noun
hygiene
Adverb
hygienically
Adjective
hygienic
Related
hygienist
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Memory Tip

Think of 'Hygeia', the Greek goddess of health and cleanliness.

Quick Quiz

Maintaining good personal ___ is the best way to avoid getting sick.

Correct!

The correct answer is: hygiene

Examples

1

Good hygiene starts with washing your hands before every meal.

everyday

Good hygiene starts with washing your hands before every meal.

2

The clinic must follow strict hygiene protocols to ensure patient safety.

formal

The clinic must follow strict hygiene protocols to ensure patient safety.

3

Don't forget your basic hygiene even when you are traveling.

informal

Don't forget your basic hygiene even when you are traveling.

4

Studies indicate that poor hygiene is a primary factor in the spread of infections.

academic

Studies indicate that poor hygiene is a primary factor in the spread of infections.

5

All employees must attend a workshop on workplace hygiene and safety.

business

All employees must attend a workshop on workplace hygiene and safety.

Word Family

Noun
hygiene
Adverb
hygienically
Adjective
hygienic
Related
hygienist

Common Collocations

personal hygiene individual cleanliness habits
food hygiene safety and cleanliness in food preparation
poor hygiene lack of cleanliness
dental hygiene care of the teeth and mouth
sleep hygiene habits that help you have a good night's sleep

Common Phrases

practice hygiene

to perform activities to keep clean

hand hygiene

the act of cleaning one's hands

mental hygiene

practices to maintain psychological health

Often Confused With

hygiene vs sanitation

Sanitation usually refers to public systems like sewers, while hygiene refers to personal cleaning habits.

📝

Usage Notes

The word hygiene is an uncountable noun. It is most frequently used with adjectives like 'good', 'poor', 'personal', or 'dental'.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often try to use it as a plural (hygenes) or use the verb 'to make' (make hygiene) instead of 'to practice' or 'to maintain'.

💡

Memory Tip

Think of 'Hygeia', the Greek goddess of health and cleanliness.

📖

Word Origin

From the Greek word 'hygieinos' meaning 'healthful' or 'good for health'.

Grammar Patterns

Uncountable noun Used with the verbs 'maintain', 'practice', or 'improve' Often functions as a noun adjunct (e.g., hygiene standards)
🌍

Cultural Context

In many modern cultures, daily personal hygiene like showering and using deodorant is a strong social expectation.

Quick Quiz

Maintaining good personal ___ is the best way to avoid getting sick.

Correct!

The correct answer is: hygiene

Related Grammar Rules

More medicine words

physician

A1

A physician is a person who is trained and licensed to practice medicine. They examine patients, diagnose illnesses, and provide treatments to help people stay healthy.

paramedic

A1

A paramedic is a person trained to give emergency medical care to people who are seriously ill or injured. They usually work in ambulances and help patients before they reach a hospital.

pharmacist

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A pharmacist is a healthcare professional who is trained to prepare and give out medicines to patients. They also provide expert advice on how to use medications safely and manage minor health issues.

therapist

A1

A therapist is a trained professional who helps people with mental, emotional, or physical problems. They use specific methods like talking or physical exercises to help their patients feel better and improve their lives.

dentist

A1

A dentist is a medical professional who specializes in the care of teeth and gums. They perform check-ups, cleanings, and repairs like fillings to help maintain oral health.

psychiatrist

A1

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who focuses on mental health. They help people with emotional or mental problems and can prescribe medicine to help them recover.

neurologist

A1

A neurologist is a special doctor who treats problems with the brain, nerves, and spinal cord. They help people who have bad headaches, memory loss, or trouble moving their bodies.

ward

A1

A ward is a large room or a specific area in a hospital where patients stay and receive care. It usually contains several beds and is organized by the type of medical treatment provided.

sign

A1

A medical sign is a physical fact that a doctor finds during an exam. It is something that can be seen, felt, or measured, like a red mark or a high temperature.

CT scan

A1

A CT scan is a medical test that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed pictures of the inside of the body. It helps doctors see bones, organs, and tissues clearly to find health problems.

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