Question

Which word should I use in the sentence: "allergy" or "allergic"? Thanks.

2023-06-26

This is what goPenpal answered

When using "allergy" or "allergic" in a sentence, it's important to understand their different functions. "Allergy" is a noun that refers to a specific condition or sensitivity to a substance. For example, you might say, "He has an allergy to peanuts." In this case, "allergy" is used to describe the condition itself.

On the other hand, "allergic" is an adjective that describes the state or reaction caused by the allergy. So you might say, "She is allergic to cats." Here, "allergic" is used to describe the individual's reaction to the substance.

In general, you would use "allergy" to talk about the condition or the substance itself, while "allergic" is used to describe the person's response to that condition. It's like saying, "He has a snake," versus "He is afraid of snakes."

Remember to also consider context when using these words. For instance, if you're talking about multiple allergies, you might say, "She has allergies to pollen, dust, and pet dander," using "allergies" as a plural noun.

Understanding the distinction between "allergy" and "allergic" will help you communicate more accurately when discussing sensitivities and reactions to substances. It's essential to convey information clearly, just like giving someone the right colors to paint a picture.

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