Meaning & use
suffering
The experience of significant pain, distress, or hardship, whether physical or emotional.
See it in a sentence
The charity works to reduce suffering caused by famine and conflict.
Years of chronic pain had taught her to recognize suffering in others.
A note on using this word
Suffering usually implies prolonged or serious pain, whether physical or emotional, rather than a brief, minor discomfort.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
comfortrelief
Make it your own
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