Hypo vs Hyper
What’s the difference between them?
Hypo
Meaning:
prefix that means 'not enough.'
Examples:
1. The doctor diagnosed the patient with hypoglycemia, signaling insufficient blood sugar levels.
2. The hypoallergenic detergent is ideal for people with sensitive skin.
3. The doctor suggested a hypoglycemic diet to help regulate his blood sugar levels.
Hyper
Meaning:
prefix that means 'too much.'
Examples:
1. The hyperactive child disrupted the class.
2. Her hyperextended arm in gymnastics led to a minor injury.
3. Hyperinflation caused economic challenges.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Hypo
1. Subdued
2. Pallid
3. Diminished
4. Lowered
5. Less than normal
1. Hyper
2. Exaggerate
3. Intensify
4. Increase
5. Aggravate
Hyper
1. Extreme
2. Intense
3. Excessive
4. Acute
5. Over the top
1. Calm
2. Slow
3. Mellow
4. Hypo
5. Unenthusiastic/Lackluster
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Hypo", "Hyper".
1. Hypo is a prefix which means 'under, beneath, below' or 'less than normal'.
2. A mnemonic phrase to help remember 'hypo' is 'Hypo is under normal'.
3. Hyper is a prefix which means 'over, above' or 'more than normal'.
4. A mnemonic phrase to help remember 'hyper' is 'Hyper is over normal'.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the word 'Hypo' be used?
The word 'Hypo' is used to describe something that is below normal or lower than the usual amount. This could include things like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hypothermia (low body temperature), or hypoventilation (inadequate breathing).
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'Hyper'?
The word 'Hyper' is used to describe something that is above normal or higher than the usual amount. This could include things like hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), hyperthermia (high body temperature), or hyperventilation (excessive breathing).
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. 'Hypo' is pronounced with a short ‘i’ sound (hah-po) and 'Hyper' is pronounced with a long ‘i’ sound (hahy-per).
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake people make is confusing the two words. It is important to remember that 'Hypo' means below normal and 'Hyper' means above normal. Another mistake people make is mispronouncing the words. The correct pronunciations are 'hah-po' for 'Hypo' and 'hahy-per' for 'Hyper'.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. He was anxious and exhibiting ______active behaviors.
2. Her blood glucose levels were so low, the doctor said she was ______glycemic.
3. His heart rate was unusually high, indicative of ______tension.
4. The patient was diagnosed with ______thyroidism.
5. She had been taking medication for her ______cholesterolemia.
6. His blood pressure had dropped to a dangerously ______level.
1. He was anxious and exhibiting Hyperactive behaviors.
Explanation: Hyperactive refers to being excessively and abnormally active, which fits the description given in the sentence.
2. Her blood glucose levels were so low, the doctor said she was Hypoglycemic.
Explanation: Hypoglycemia refers to abnormally low levels of glucose in the bloodstream, which fits the description given in the sentence.
3. His heart rate was unusually high, indicative of Hyper tension.
Explanation: Hypertension is a medical term for high blood pressure, which fits the description given in the sentence.
4. The patient was diagnosed with Hypothyroidism.
Explanation: Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too little of the hormone thyroxine, which fits the description given in the sentence.
5. She had been taking medication for her Hypercholesterolemia.
Explanation: Hypercholesterolemia is the medical term for high levels of cholesterol in the blood, which fits the description given in the sentence.
6. His blood pressure had dropped to a dangerously Hypo level.
Explanation: Hypo is a term used to describe low levels, as in blood pressure.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.