Part of speech: Noun phrase
Phonetic transcription: /ˈlɪvɪŋ wɪl/
Meanings: 1. A legal document that allows an individual to specify their wishes regarding medical treatment and end-of-life care in case they are unable to communicate their decisions. 2. A moral or ethical statement outlining an individual's desires, philosophies, or values related to life and death.
Usage patterns: The term "living will" is more commonly used in written contexts, especially within the legal and medical fields. It is frequently used when discussing healthcare directives, advance directives, and end-of-life planning. While it is also used in oral speech, its occurrence is more prevalent in formal discussions or legal documents.
Examples: 1. She drafted a living will to make her end-of-life preferences known. 2. It's important to discuss your wishes with your family and healthcare providers before creating a living will.
Idiomatic expressions: "Living will" is not commonly found in idiomatic expressions. However, the concept of expressing one's wishes or intentions, as seen in a living will, can be extended to metaphorical usage in discussions about personal choices and decisions.
Etymology: The phrase "living will" originated in the United States in the 1960s as a legal document that allowed individuals to outline their desires for medical care in case of incapacitation or terminal illness.
Synonyms: - Advance directive - Healthcare directive
Antonyms: - DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order - Last will and testament - Testamentary will