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# a long illness

phrase (noun phrase: a long illness)

«a long illness» in the English dictionary: in the primary school — its meanings, how the lessons use it, and examples, each with its tree on Mova.

## In the primary school

Source: Mova's pupils' dictionary. Licence: [Elamur Cosmic License](https://mova.elamur.ai/free/en/docs/LICENSE/). Reviewed: the dictionary the pupils of Mova's primary school read; its examples quote the lessons and public-domain tales. Ships with Mova.

### Meaning

(euphemism, news) a serious disease, often cancer, that someone had for a long time before dying.

### In the lessons

Used in news reports and death notices to avoid naming the disease; all regions; respectful and private.

### Examples

- The actor died after a long illness.
- News: «She passed away after a long illness, her family said.»
- He was brave throughout a long illness.
- Death notice: «after a long illness, bravely borne».
- The family asked for privacy after his long illness.
- School newsletter: «We are sad to share that our caretaker has died after a long illness.»

### Note

Often stands for «cancer», but the family may not want to say. Polite, not cold. «After a short illness» means the death came quickly.