All Ears English Podcast: Vocabulary That is Sick but not Sickening

Release Date: April 19, 2025

Hosts Lindsey McMahon and Aubrey Carter delve into the versatile uses of the words "sick" and "sickening" in their episode titled "Vocabulary That is Sick but not Sickening." Aimed at intermediate to advanced English learners, this episode explores how these seemingly negative terms can carry both positive and negative connotations depending on context and intonation.

I. Introduction to the Topic

The episode kicks off with Lindsey introducing a listener question from Matus Proficio, who inquires about the dual meanings of "sickening." Matus also touches on the differences between British and American expressions like "How you like them apples?" and "How about them apples?" Lindsey notes that while the first part of Matus's question relates to a previous episode, today's focus remains on understanding the multifaceted use of "sickening."

II. Exploring "Sickening" and "Sicken"

Negative Connotation:

Lindsey and Aubrey first address the common negative usage of "sickening." They explain that when something is described as sickening, it means it is extremely disappointing, disgusting, or appalling. For instance:

• [02:48] Aubrey Carter: "It's so true. Today we do have a great question from a listener talking about the word sick and sickening. Right. All the different ways that we use."

• [05:00] Lindsey McMahon: "That politician's actions are sickening."

This use conveys a strong emotional reaction, similar to feeling physically ill due to something unpleasant.

Positive Connotation:

Interestingly, "sickening" and its related forms can also convey positive sentiments:

• [05:38] Aubrey Carter: "For example, that couple is so in love, it's sickening."

Here, "sickening" is used metaphorically to express admiration or awe, implying that something is overwhelmingly beautiful or impressive.

Verb Form - "Sicken":

The hosts expand on the verb form "sicken," illustrating how it functions similarly to the adjective:

• [09:16] Aubrey Carter: "What he did sickens me."

• [09:26] Lindsey McMahon: "Oh, that couple is so cute kissing. They sicken me."

III. "Sick" as Slang for "Cool" or "Impressive"

Beyond "sickening," the word "sick" itself has evolved into modern slang meaning "cool" or "impressive." However, its usage requires careful consideration of context and intonation to avoid confusion.

• [09:55] Lindsey McMahon: "We've really wound up sick as an adjective used positively. It's slang to mean something is cool or impressive."

• [10:24] Aubrey Carter: "You have to really drive it home with your intonation."

For example, praising someone's tattoos:

• [10:36] Lindsey McMahon: "Her tattoos are sick. I love them."

Proper intonation ensures that listeners interpret "sick" as a compliment rather than a comment on health.

IV. Importance of Context and Intonation

Lindsey and Aubrey emphasize that understanding the context and using the correct intonation are crucial when employing these terms to convey the intended meaning accurately.

• [12:00] Aubrey Carter: "It would feel too young when you hear this."

• [12:16] Lindsey McMahon: "You wouldn't use this for just anything. It has to be something that really is pretty cool and unique."

Misuse can lead to misunderstandings, such as confusing a statement about a movie being "sick" with expressing illness.

V. Practical Examples and Role Play

To reinforce their explanations, the hosts engage in a mini role play, demonstrating both negative and positive uses of "sick" and "sickening":

• [15:17] Lindsey McMahon: "I love your wallet. Is it new?"

• [15:20] Aubrey Carter: "Yes, I found it on sale for an amazing price."

• [15:24] Lindsey McMahon: "Sick. I love a good deal."

Here, "sick" praises the great deal on the wallet. Conversely, when discussing Natalia's ex:

• [15:27] Aubrey Carter: "What he did sickens me."

• [16:12] Lindsey McMahon: "Whatever he's done, you know, he treated her poorly. And so we're saying what he did sickens me."

This illustrates the negative use, expressing disgust over Natalia's ex's actions.

VI. Applying Vocabulary in Real Conversations

The episode concludes with practical applications of the discussed vocabulary in everyday situations. Lindsey and Aubrey encourage listeners to experiment with both positive and negative uses, ensuring they align with their personality and the context of the conversation.

• [17:08] Aubrey Carter: "This is a really high level episode if you really think about it."

• [18:27] Lindsey McMahon: "We want you to be able to use today's phrases to connect about something being cool or upsetting in English."

VII. Key Takeaways

• Dual Meanings: "Sick" and "sickening" can express both negative and positive sentiments. Understanding context and intonation is essential.

• Slang Usage: "Sick" as slang means "cool" or "impressive," but must be used appropriately to avoid confusion.

• Verb Form: "Sicken" functions similarly to "sickening," allowing for both negative and, in some cases, positive expressions.

• Practical Application: Engaging in role plays and real-life conversations can help solidify the correct usage of these terms.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [05:07] Aubrey Carter: "How do you like them apples? It's also a very important movie reference."

• [06:06] Aubrey Carter: "Listeners, if you've tasted American desserts, you might feel that they are sickening."

• [12:42] Aubrey Carter: "This is not in my personality to say this. It would feel too young when you hear this."

• [16:33] Aubrey Carter: "When we can create that imagery... you're seeing something happening in front of you... that's powerful."

Conclusion

In this enlightening episode, Lindsey and Aubrey effectively demystify the complex usage of "sick" and "sickening" in American English. By providing clear definitions, contextual examples, and practical applications, they equip listeners with the tools to use these terms confidently and accurately in various conversations. Whether expressing disgust or admiration, understanding these nuances helps learners connect more naturally in English-speaking environments.

Join Lindsey and Aubrey in their next episode as they continue to explore the intricacies of American English, ensuring you speak with confidence and ease.