autoimmune - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
autoimmune Word Meanings
- related to diseases caused by the immune system attacking the body's own cells
- referring to conditions where the immune system mistakenly targets the body itself
autoimmune Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
autoimmune Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɔːtəʊɪˈmjuːn/
US
/ˌɔtəʊɪˈmjun/
autoimmune Word Etymology
{"root_decomposition":"auto- (self) + immune (protected)","historical_origin":"from Greek 'auto' meaning 'self' + Latin 'immunis' meaning 'exempt'","memory_image":"Imagine a soldier (the immune system) mistakenly attacking its own fort (body) instead of the enemy."}
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Autoimmune describes a set of conditions in which the immune system mistakenly targets the body's own tissues. Used as an adjective, it applies to diseases like autoimmune thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis, as well as to immune responses that are directed at self rather than at pathogens. The term emphasizes that the problem lies in self-tolerance and regulation, not in a lack of immune activity. It helps distinguish autoimmune diseases from infections or immunodeficiencies, and it is commonly paired with disease or disorder in clinical writing and patient education. Remember that it is one word, not auto-immune in modern standard usage.
Usage Reminders
- Describe diseases caused by the immune system attacking self
- Use autoimmune before disease/condition: autoimmune disease, autoimmune disorder
- Do not treat autoimmune as a noun; say an autoimmune disease instead
- Contrast autoimmunity with immunodeficiency or infection
- Common collocations include autoimmune disease, autoimmune response, autoimmune reaction
Common Misconceptions
- Autoimmune is contagious or caused by infection
- All illnesses are autoimmune
- Autoimmune means a person is weak or defective
- Autoimmune diseases are the same as allergies
- Once autoimmune, always autoimmune; it cannot be managed
Thinking Differences
English speakers often notice autoimmune as a formal, medical modifier distinguishing self-targeted immune activity from infection; learners sometimes treat it as a noun or imply moral failing if misused.
Learning Tips
- Link autoimmune to self-tocusing diseases rather than infections
- Practice with common collocations like autoimmune disease and autoimmune disorder
- Watch for spelling as one word (autoimmune) not auto-immune
- Differentiate autoimmune from immunodeficiency in explanations
- Use examples with body tissues (joints, thyroid, skin) to anchor meaning
- Record pronunciation: /ˌɔː. təˈmjuːn/ or /ˌɔː. təˈmjuː. n/
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'autoimmune'?
A.Relating to a condition in which the body's immune system attacks its own cells
B.A term used to describe a process of digestion
C.A type of contagious disease caused by bacteria
D.A psychological disorder characterized by extreme anxiety
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'autoimmune' correctly?
A.He bought an autoimmune car.
B.The doctor diagnosed her with an autoimmune disease.
C.Autoimmune is a popular type of software.
D.I collect autoimmune stamps.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'autoimmune'?
A.Infectious
B.Self-destructive
C.Chronic
D.Malignant
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'autoimmune'?
A.Protective
B.Reactive
C.Healthy
D.Detrimental
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'autoimmune' is relevant?
A.A person has a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
B.She attended a seminar on health issues related to immune system disorders.
C.After years of research, scientists found a cure for a chronic disease.
D.He started a business selling immune-boosting supplements.
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