Aggrieved: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone feels they have been treated unfairly or wronged, often in a legal or formal context.

• She felt aggrieved by the unfair decision of the court.
• The employees were aggrieved by the changes in the company's policy.

When someone feels bitterness or indignation at having been treated unfairly, often long-term.

• She felt resentful towards her brother for always getting more attention.
• He was resentful of his colleague’s success.

When someone is experiencing extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.

• He was visibly distressed after hearing the bad news.
• The distressed passengers were comforted by the crew.

When someone feels insulted or hurt by something that was said or done, usually in a more personal or social context.

• She was offended by his rude remarks.
• He didn't mean to offend anyone with his joke.

Use 'aggrieved' when someone feels resentment or has been treated unfairly, often with a sense of personal mistreatment.

• She felt aggrieved when she was passed over for the promotion.
• The aggrieved customer filed a formal complaint.

The term 'injured' is best used to refer to physical damage to a person or animal. It is commonly used in medical or emergency situations.

• Several players were injured during the match.
• She was injured in the fall and taken to the hospital.

Deploy 'harmed' to describe someone or something that has suffered physical injury or damage. This term often conveys a more tangible or measurable impact.

• The environment has been significantly harmed by the oil spill.
• He was badly harmed in the accident.

Use 'wronged' when someone has been treated unfairly or unjustly, often implying a moral or ethical wrongdoing. This term can have a strong emotional or accusatory tone.

• He felt deeply wronged by the false accusations.
• They sought justice for the wronged community.