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pneumococcal

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //njuːməˈkɒkəl//

KK: /nʊˈmoʊkɑkəl/

adjective
Definition

Relating to a type of bacteria that can cause infections, especially in the lungs.


Example

The pneumococcal vaccine helps protect against serious infections.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the pneumococcal vaccine?
Sloth B
Yeah, I read it can help prevent some serious infections.
Sloth A
It's good to know there are ways to protect ourselves from pneumococcal diseases.
Sloth B
Definitely, staying informed about vaccines is really important.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bacterial
infectious
pathogenic
Antonyms
noninfectious
harmless
benign
Root Explanation

Pneumococcal → It is formed from "pneumo-" (from Greek "pneuma", meaning breath or lung) and "coccus" (from Greek "kokkos", meaning berry or seed). The term refers to a type of bacteria that affects the lungs, hence relating to respiratory issues.

Memory Tip

Think of 'breath' ('pneumo-') and 'berry' ('coccus') to remember that 'pneumococcal' relates to a type of bacteria affecting the lungs.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

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