NHS
Meaning: National Health Service (British public healthcare system).
The NHS is Britain's free-at-point-of-use healthcare system. 'On the NHS' means free public healthcare. 'Going private' contrasts with NHS care. The NHS is a source of national pride.
Examples
- I got it done on the NHS. 我通过NHS免费做了Me lo hicieron por la sanidad pública「NHSで無料でやってもらった」NHS로 무료로 받을 거야.
- NHS waiting lists are long. NHS的候诊名单很长Las listas de espera del NHS son largas「NHSの待ち時間は長い」NHS가 있어서 정말 다행이야.
- Thank God for the NHS. 感谢NHSGracias a Dios por el NHS「NHSがあってよかった」NHS 대기 시간이 점점 길어지고 있어.
Pronunciation
/ɛn eɪtʃ ɛs/
Usage Guide
Context: healthcare, British, public services
Tone: factual, often proud
✓ Do Say
- NHS国民健康服务Servicio Nacional de Salud国民保健サービスNHS로(공비로)
- On the NHS通过NHS、公费Por la sanidad públicaNHSで、公費で우리 NHS
- NHS appointmentNHS预约Cita del NHSNHSの予約NHS에 감사
✗ Don't Say
- British institution—deeply cultural英国特有的制度,有深厚的文化意义Institución británica con profundo significado culturalイギリス独自の制度で文化的に深い意味がある영국 고유의 제도로 깊은 문화적 의미가 있다
Common Mistakes
- Only UK—other countries have different systems
Origin & History
Established in 1948, the NHS provides healthcare free at the point of use, funded by taxation. It's become a defining British institution and cultural touchstone.
Etymology: Abbreviation: National Health Service
First recorded: 1948
Cultural Context
Era: 1948 onwards
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
Pop culture: 2012 Olympics; COVID applause
Regional notes: Defining British institution.
Story & Trivia
The NHS was founded in 1948 by Aneurin Bevan. Its principle of healthcare free at point of use was revolutionary. The NHS features in the 2012 Olympics opening ceremony as a symbol of British pride.
Variations
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