Afflict Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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afflict
[əˈflɪkt ]
Definitions
cause suffering
To afflict means to cause pain or suffering to someone or something. It can refer to physical, emotional, or mental suffering.
Synonyms
distress, plague, torment, trouble.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| afflict |
Use 'afflict' when talking about causing pain or suffering, often in a serious or formal context, usually related to diseases or disasters.
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| trouble |
'Trouble' is broader and can mean causing inconvenience, worry, or difficulty. It can be used in both serious and more casual contexts.
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| distress |
'Distress' is suitable when referring to severe anxiety, pain, or sorrow, often emotional or mental suffering.
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| torment |
'Torment' is used when describing severe physical or mental suffering, often prolonged and intense.
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| plague |
'Plague' is used to describe something that causes continual trouble or suffering, often in a widespread manner. It can refer to both literal diseases or metaphorical problems.
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Examples of usage
- He was afflicted with a rare disease.
- The country was afflicted by natural disasters.
- She was afflicted by grief after the loss of her loved one.
affect negatively
To afflict can also mean to affect or trouble someone in a negative way, causing harm or difficulty.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| afflict |
Used to describe causing pain, suffering, or distress, often in a more abstract or widespread sense, such as illness, problems, or difficult conditions. It is typically more formal.
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| harm |
Describes causing physical or emotional injury or damage. It can be used for both minor and serious situations.
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| damage |
Commonly used to refer to physical harm that reduces value, usefulness, or normal function. It can also be used in a more abstract sense, such as ruining someone's reputation.
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| hurt |
Often used to describe causing pain or injury, whether physical or emotional. It is a more personal and direct term compared to others in the group.
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| wound |
Typically used to describe an injury that involves a break in the skin or tissue, often from a weapon or accident. It can also be used metaphorically for emotional pain, but in a less common way.
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Examples of usage
- The economic crisis afflicted millions of families.
- The war afflicted the entire region.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In classic literature, characters affected by affliction often reflect deeper themes of resilience and human struggle.
- Shakespeare frequently depicted affliction in his works, illustrating it as a part of the human condition.
- Writers like John Milton in 'Paradise Lost' discussed the afflictions of mankind in the context of broader philosophical themes.
Psychology
- Emotional afflictions can lead to psychological disorders, highlighting the connection between mental health and life challenges.
- The impact of affliction can alter a person's perception and response to the world, influencing their behavior and relationships.
- Coping mechanisms are essential for overcoming the afflictions one faces, including seeking support from friends or professionals.
Health
- Certain diseases and health conditions are described as afflictions, indicating the suffering they cause.
- The concept of affliction also extends to mental health, where conditions like anxiety and depression can significantly affect a person's well-being.
- Historical plagues and pandemics have been described as afflictive forces affecting entire populations.
Cultural References
- In various cultures, folklore contains tales of affliction, portraying it as a test of character or faith.
- Religious texts often address affliction as a way to foster compassion and empathy in communities.
- Modern music and art frequently explore themes of affliction, using personal experiences to unite audiences around shared struggles.
Origin of 'afflict'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'afflict' comes from the Latin 'afflictus', which means 'to strike down' or 'to trouble'.
- Interestingly, 'afflict' is made up of the prefix 'ad-' (to) and 'flectere' (to bend), hinting at being bent down by trouble.
- The term has been used in English since the 14th century, primarily relating to suffering or sadness.
The word 'afflict' comes from the Latin word 'affligere', which means 'to strike down'. The term has been used in English since the 14th century. Originally, it was primarily used in the context of physical suffering, but over time, its usage expanded to include emotional and mental distress as well.
See also: affliction.