Scan

SKAN /skæn/
Neutral Neutral

What it really means

A general word for imaging tests like ultrasound, CT or MRI. You are usually referred for a scan by a GP or hospital doctor, and the appointment comes by letter. Results go back to the doctor who referred you.

Chinese explanation
扫描检查的统称,包括超声(ultrasound)、CT和核磁共振(MRI)。通常由GP或医院医生转介,预约以信件通知,结果反馈给转介你的医生。

Example conversation

A: The consultant has requested an MRI scan of my knee. B: The scan department will write to you with a date.
A:主任医生给我约了膝盖的核磁共振。 B:扫描科会写信通知你具体日期。

What you could say back

No spoken reply needed for this one.

Related phrases

Official sources

Rules and amounts change — confirm important details with the official source.
All Healthcare & NHS
Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team · Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake