Health / A2

i-MURJ-uh-nsee/ɪˈmɜːdʒənsi/

An emergency is a serious situation that needs action now: in an emergency, an emergency exit, emergency services. Urgent is the adjective for needing speed. 999 is the British number; 112 also works. An emergency room is more American; British hospitals say A&E. Do not call a late homework an emergency in careful speech.

Meaning

A serious, unexpected situation that needs action now.

Examples

• “Call 999 in an emergency.”
• “Break the glass only in an emergency.”
• “The flight was diverted because of a medical emergency.”

Good to know

in an emergency / emergency exit. UK phone: 999. Hospital: A&E (British), not emergency room.

Topics

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