Subscribe vs Prescribe: Differences And Uses For Each One

Are you confused about the difference between “subscribe” and “prescribe”? These two words are often used interchangeably, but they actually have very different meanings. In this article, we’ll explore the definitions of both words and help you understand when to use each one.

Let’s define the two words:

• Subscribe: To agree to receive or access something regularly, typically a publication or service.
• Prescribe: To recommend or authorize the use of a particular medicine or treatment for a medical condition.

As you can see, these two words have completely different meanings. While “subscribe” refers to agreeing to receive or access something regularly, “prescribe” refers to recommending or authorizing a particular medical treatment. So, when should you use each one?

In the rest of this article, we’ll explore the proper usage of “subscribe” and “prescribe” in more detail. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of when to use each word and how to avoid common mistakes.

Define Subscribe

Subscribe means to agree to receive or access a service or product on a regular basis by paying a fee or providing contact information. It is often used in the context of online content consumption, such as subscribing to a YouTube channel or a newsletter. Subscribing to a service or product implies a voluntary agreement to receive updates or access to new content.

Define Prescribe

Prescribe means to recommend or order a specific treatment, medication, or course of action for a particular condition or situation. It is commonly used in the context of medical treatment, where a doctor prescribes medication for a patient based on their diagnosis. Prescribing implies a professional authority to make a recommendation or order, and the expectation that the recommendation will be followed.

Subscribe vs Prescribe Comparison

Subscribe	Prescribe
Voluntary agreement	Professional recommendation or order
Regular access or updates	Specific treatment or medication
Fee or contact information required	Medical diagnosis required

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the correct word in a sentence is essential in conveying the intended message. It is easy to confuse words that sound alike, such as “subscribe” and “prescribe.” In this section, we will discuss how to properly use these words in a sentence.

How To Use “Subscribe” In A Sentence

“Subscribe” is a verb that means to arrange to receive something regularly, typically a publication or service. Here are some examples of how to use “subscribe” in a sentence:

• I subscribe to a monthly magazine about cooking.
• She decided to subscribe to an online streaming service for movies.
• We encourage our customers to subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive deals.

As you can see, “subscribe” is used to indicate an agreement to receive something regularly. It can be used in the context of print or digital media, as well as services or products.

How To Use “Prescribe” In A Sentence

“Prescribe” is a verb that means to recommend or order the use of a particular medicine, treatment, or remedy. Here are some examples of how to use “prescribe” in a sentence:

• The doctor prescribed antibiotics for the infection.
• She was prescribed medication to manage her high blood pressure.
• The therapist prescribed a daily exercise routine for the patient.

As you can see, “prescribe” is used in the context of medical treatment or therapy. It is used to indicate a recommendation or order for a particular medicine, treatment, or remedy.

More Examples Of Subscribe & Prescribe Used In Sentences

In order to gain a better understanding of the differences between “subscribe” and “prescribe”, it’s helpful to examine how these words are used in real-life sentences. Here are some examples:

Examples Of Using “Subscribe” In A Sentence

• She decided to subscribe to the magazine after reading a few issues at the library.
• He subscribed to the online service so he could access exclusive content.
• The company encourages customers to subscribe to their email newsletter for updates on new products and promotions.
• I don’t subscribe to the idea that money equals happiness.
• Many people subscribe to the belief that exercise is essential for good health.
• She’s been a loyal subscriber to the local newspaper for over a decade.
• He decided to subscribe to the podcast so he wouldn’t miss an episode.
• The website requires users to subscribe in order to access premium features.
• After the trial period, you’ll need to subscribe to continue using the service.
• She’s always been hesitant to subscribe to the idea that success is measured by wealth.

Examples Of Using “Prescribe” In A Sentence

• The doctor prescribed antibiotics to treat the infection.
• She was prescribed medication for her anxiety.
• He prescribed a strict diet and exercise regimen to improve his patient’s health.
• The teacher prescribed a specific book for the class to read over the summer.
• The therapist prescribed weekly sessions to address her patient’s depression.
• The law prescribes a maximum sentence of ten years for that crime.
• The guidelines prescribe a certain amount of rest and recovery time after a concussion.
• The nutritionist prescribed a vitamin supplement to address her patient’s deficiencies.
• The company policy prescribes a dress code for employees.
• The contract prescribes specific terms and conditions for the agreement.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Using subscribe and prescribe interchangeably is a common mistake that many people make. While these two words may sound similar, they have very different meanings and should be used in the appropriate context.

Mistake #1: Using “Subscribe” Instead Of “Prescribe”

One of the most common mistakes people make is using “subscribe” instead of “prescribe” when referring to medication. While “subscribe” means to sign up for something, such as a newsletter or magazine, “prescribe” means to recommend or order a specific medication or treatment plan.

For example, saying “my doctor subscribed me a new medication” is incorrect. The correct phrase would be “my doctor prescribed me a new medication.”

Mistake #2: Using “Prescribe” Instead Of “Subscribe”

On the other hand, using “prescribe” instead of “subscribe” is also a common mistake. While “prescribe” refers to a specific recommendation or order, “subscribe” means to sign up for something, such as a service or product.

For example, saying “I prescribed to a new streaming service” is incorrect. The correct phrase would be “I subscribed to a new streaming service.”

Tips On How To Avoid These Mistakes

To avoid making these common mistakes, it’s important to understand the difference between “subscribe” and “prescribe.” Here are some tips:

• When referring to medication or treatment plans, use “prescribe” instead of “subscribe.”
• When signing up for a service or product, use “subscribe” instead of “prescribe.”
• If you’re unsure which word to use, consult a dictionary or thesaurus for clarification.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you’re using “subscribe” and “prescribe” correctly in your writing and communication.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “subscribe” and “prescribe,” context is crucial. Both words have similar meanings, but they are used in different contexts and can have different connotations. Understanding the context in which these words are used is essential to choosing the right one for your intended meaning.

Contextual Examples

Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between “subscribe” and “prescribe” might change:

Medical Context

In a medical context, “prescribe” is the appropriate word to use. It refers to a doctor or healthcare professional giving instructions for a treatment plan or medication regimen. For example:

• The doctor prescribed antibiotics for the patient’s infection.
• The nurse practitioner prescribed a new medication for the patient’s chronic pain.

Marketing Context

In a marketing context, “subscribe” is more commonly used. It refers to a customer signing up for a service or product on a recurring basis. For example:

• The customer subscribed to the monthly beauty box service.
• The user subscribed to the streaming service to watch their favorite shows.

Communication Context

In a communication context, both words can be used, but they have different connotations. “Subscribe” implies a voluntary action, while “prescribe” implies a more authoritative directive. For example:

• The newsletter allows readers to subscribe to receive regular updates.
• The teacher prescribed a reading list for the students to complete before the next class.

As you can see, the context in which these words are used can greatly affect their meaning and impact. By understanding the context and choosing the appropriate word, you can ensure that your message is clear and effective.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using subscribe and prescribe are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they might not apply. Below are some explanations and examples for each case:

Medical Context

In the medical context, the word “subscribe” might be used to mean “to sign up for” or “to authorize.” For example, a doctor might subscribe a medication for a patient, meaning they authorize the patient to receive it. In this case, “subscribe” is being used as a synonym for “prescribe.”

Magazine Titles

When it comes to magazine titles, the word “subscribe” can be used to mean “to receive regularly.” For example, a person might subscribe to a magazine, meaning they sign up to receive it regularly. In this case, “subscribe” is being used as a synonym for “receive.”

Prescription Medications

There are also some cases where the word “prescribe” might not apply to medications. For example, some over-the-counter medications can be purchased without a prescription, meaning they are not prescribed by a doctor. In this case, “prescribe” would not be used to describe the process of obtaining the medication.

Marketing Context

In a marketing context, the word “subscribe” might be used to mean “to sign up for a service or product.” For example, a person might subscribe to a streaming service, meaning they sign up to receive access to the service. In this case, “subscribe” is being used as a synonym for “sign up.”

Summary

While the rules for using subscribe and prescribe are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions where they might not apply. In the medical context, “subscribe” can be used as a synonym for “prescribe.” In the context of magazine titles, “subscribe” can be used as a synonym for “receive.” For over-the-counter medications, “prescribe” may not apply as they are not prescribed by a doctor. In a marketing context, “subscribe” can be used as a synonym for “sign up.”

Practice Exercises

One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of subscribe and prescribe is through practice exercises. These exercises will help you to identify the correct usage of the words in different contexts and sentence structures.

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Choose the correct word, subscribe or prescribe, to fill in the blank in the following sentences:

1. The doctor __________ a new medication for my headache.
2. I need to __________ to that magazine so I can read the latest articles.
3. My teacher __________ that I study for at least two hours every day.
4. I always __________ to my favorite YouTuber’s channel for new content.
5. The nutritionist __________ a healthy meal plan for me to follow.

Answer Key:

1. The doctor prescribed a new medication for my headache.
2. I need to subscribe to that magazine so I can read the latest articles.
3. My teacher prescribed that I study for at least two hours every day.
4. I always subscribe to my favorite YouTuber’s channel for new content.
5. The nutritionist prescribed a healthy meal plan for me to follow.

Exercise 2: Sentence Completion

Complete the following sentences using the correct word, subscribe or prescribe:

1. The doctor __________ a new treatment plan for my condition.
2. She decided to __________ to the online course to improve her skills.
3. The coach __________ a strict training regimen for the athletes.
4. I always __________ to the newspaper to keep up with current events.
5. The therapist __________ a meditation practice for stress relief.

Answer Key:

1. The doctor prescribed a new treatment plan for my condition.
2. She decided to subscribe to the online course to improve her skills.
3. The coach prescribed a strict training regimen for the athletes.
4. I always subscribe to the newspaper to keep up with current events.
5. The therapist prescribed a meditation practice for stress relief.

By practicing with these exercises, you can improve your understanding and usage of subscribe and prescribe in various contexts. Remember to pay attention to the context and meaning of the sentence to choose the correct word.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the difference between subscribe and prescribe is crucial in ensuring effective communication. Here are the key takeaways from this article:

Subscribe

• Refers to the act of signing up for a service or publication
• Often used in the context of online content, such as newsletters, podcasts, or streaming services
• Can also refer to agreeing with or supporting an idea or belief

Prescribe

• Refers to the act of recommending or ordering a specific course of action or treatment
• Often used in the context of medicine or healthcare, but can also apply to other areas such as law or business
• Implies a level of authority or expertise on the part of the person doing the prescribing

By understanding the nuances of these two words, you can avoid confusion and ensure that your message is clear and effective. However, language is a complex and ever-evolving system, and there is always more to learn. We encourage readers to continue exploring the intricacies of grammar and language use to improve their communication skills.