Meaning and Usage
"往診" (おうしん) refers specifically to a doctor's visit to a patient's home, commonly known as a house call. It is a formal medical term used primarily in professional or official contexts.
Context and Register
This word is mostly used in medical settings, especially when discussing care for patients who are elderly, disabled, or otherwise unable to visit a hospital or clinic. It carries a respectful and professional tone.
Common Collocations
- 往診に来る: to come for a house call
- 往診を受ける: to receive a house call
- 往診医: a doctor who makes house calls
These collocations highlight the action of the doctor visiting or the patient receiving care at home.
Usage Tips
Learners should note that "往診" is a noun and is often used with verbs like 来る (to come) or 受ける (to receive). It is not used to describe casual visits but specifically medical visits. Avoid confusing it with "訪問" (ほうもん), which means a general visit or call.
Common Mistake
A common mistake is to use "往診" for any kind of visit. Remember, it strictly refers to medical house calls by doctors, not visits by friends or other professionals.