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nephrotoxic

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //nɛf.rəʊˈtɒk.sɪk//

KK: /nɛfroʊˈtɒksɪk/

adjective
Definition

Something that is harmful or poisonous to the kidneys.


Example

Certain medications can be nephrotoxic and cause damage to kidney function.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about those medications that can be nephrotoxic?
Sloth B
Yeah, I read that they can really harm your kidneys if you're not careful.
Sloth A
It's scary to think about how some common drugs can be so nephrotoxic.
Sloth B
Definitely! We should always check with a doctor before taking anything new.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
renal
toxic
harmful
Antonyms
beneficial
safe
non-toxic
Root Explanation

Nephrotoxic → It is formed from "nephro-" (from Greek "nephros", meaning kidney) and "toxic" (from Greek "toxikon", meaning poison). The word describes a substance that is poisonous to the kidneys.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nephros' which relates to the kidneys, and 'toxic' which means poison — nephrotoxic refers to something that poisons the kidneys.

Visually Confused Words
neurotoxic
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