definitive/stigma

[GUEST2008]

Hello

Some said he died of TB but it is hard to definitive, there was a terrible stigma back then.

--- I understand the meaning of both "definitive" and "stigma" but somehow I cannot figure out the overall meaning?

thanks

[pyoung]

Hello

Some said he died of TB but it is hard to be definitive, there was a terrible stigma back then.

--- I understand the meaning of both "definitive" and "stigma" but somehow I cannot figure out the overall meaning?

thanks

At this distance in time, it is hard to state with absolute certainty what he really died of, because, at the time of his death, there was shame attached to certain illnesses.

Petra

[GUEST2008]

I see. So stigma can mean shame?

thanks

[pyoung]

Yes, or disgrace.

Petra