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patient ~ patient
[the same pronunciation: with the letters 'tie' with a 'sh' sound]
“Patient” (adjective) is ‘the ability to bear troubles, inconvenience without complaint or anxiety; the ability to wait for something or someone calmly, without being anxious, for a long time’,
[The noun form of the adjective ‘patient’ is “patience”, and is more commonly used.]
a patient dog, waiting for the other one (a skunk) to finish eating
e.g.
The young teacher is very patient with her little pupils.
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“Patient” (noun) is ‘a sick person who has taken or is taking medical treatment or advice from a doctor or at a hospital’,
a patient in hospital
e.g.
The doctor advised his patient not to drink alcohol any more.
The patients are treated well in this hospital.
Common Errors:
1.
He is patient; he cannot go to work. [wrong]
[i.e. he is a sick man – a noun]
He is a patient; he cannot go to work. [right]
2.
She is a patient; she listens to everybody’s problems and gives some good advice. [wrong]
[i.e. she is not a sick person, but a person with great understanding – an adjective]
She is patient; she listens to everybody’s problems and … [right]
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About the Author:BC Kumar
BC Kumar, an English Language Teacher, taught in numerous countries including Ethiopia, Oman and India, shares his knowledge and passion for the English Language. Disclaimer: This is a free educational website and all content has been compiled by the author. All copyrights to images and videos belong to their respective owners.
