Describing symptoms B1
Telling someone how you're feeling and what's wrong.
Saying you're unwell
come down with — become illA: You look tired. Are you okay?
B: Not really. I think I'm coming down with something.
feel up to — feel able to doA: Are you coming to the gym later?
B: I don't think I feel up to it today. Maybe tomorrow.
under the weather — feeling slightly unwellI'm a bit under the weather, thanks for asking. (casual)
I'm afraid I'm feeling rather under the weather today. (polite)
Describing a serious turn
pass out — to become unconsciousA: Are you okay? You look pale.
B: I just stood up too quickly and almost passed out.
Saying what hurts
a splitting headache — a very bad headacheI've got a splitting headache. (casual)
I'm sorry, I've come down with a splitting headache. (polite)
Off colour at work
Jo: You look a bit pale — are you alright?
Sam: Honestly, I think I'm coming down with something. My head's pounding.
Jo: You should go home. Do you even feel up to the bus?
Sam: Probably not. I might grab a taxi, actually.
A worrying dizzy spell
Sam: I went really dizzy in the meeting earlier — I thought I was going to pass out.
Jo: That's not good. Have you eaten anything today?
Sam: Barely. I skipped breakfast and lunch.
Jo: There's your answer. Sit down and I'll fetch you something.
A rough morning
Jo: Morning — you don't look your usual self today.
Sam: I'm a bit under the weather, to be honest. Didn't sleep at all.
Jo: Oh no. Anything in particular, or just run-down?
Sam: I've got a splitting headache that just won't shift. I might lie down for ten minutes.