Something that is very severe, sharp, or intense; often refers to diseases, angles, or observations.
Examples:
How very acute you are, Mortimer, in finding my weak place!Persecution mania very acute.He had acute insight into the team's dynamics.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Chronic
/ˈkrɒnɪk/
Something continuing for a long time or occurring repeatedly; often refers to diseases or problems.
Examples:
'It was a chronic condition with Ralph Paton,' he said dryly.Chronic stress can lead to significant health issues.Her chronic lateness led to problems at work.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
This word has no antonyms
Ways to tell them apart:
Chronic refers to a condition that persists over a long period.
Acute describes a condition that is severe and sudden in onset.
Remember chronic as chronic ache which implies long-term discomfort.
Think of acute angle in math, which is small and precise, just like the brief nature of an acute condition.
Chronic can progress slowly, while acute conditions demand immediate attention.