Agony: meaning, definitions and examples

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agony

[ˈaɡ.ə.ni ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mental suffering

Agony refers to intense physical or mental suffering, typically lasting for a prolonged period of time. It is often described as a state of extreme distress, anguish, or torment. Agony can be caused by various factors such as physical injury, emotional trauma, or overwhelming stress.

Synonyms

anguish, distress, pain, suffering, torment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
agony	This word describes a very intense and often prolonged physical or emotional pain. It is used when someone is experiencing an extreme level of suffering. She was in agony after breaking her leg. The news of his death left her in emotional agony.
pain	Pain can refer to both physical and emotional discomfort or suffering. It is a broad term used in everyday language. He felt a sharp pain in his shoulder. The breakup caused her a lot of emotional pain.
distress	This word is used for a state of emotional or mental pain, often combined with anxiety or fear. It can also refer to trouble or suffering. The child's disappearance put the entire neighborhood in distress. She was in distress after losing her job.
torment	Torment usually describes severe physical or emotional pain and suffering, often inflicted by someone or something. It can be both a noun and a verb. He felt tormented by guilt. The prolonged interrogation was an act of torment.
anguish	Anguish is typically used to describe severe emotional pain or mental suffering. It's more about the mind and emotions rather than physical pain. The soldier experienced deep anguish after returning from war. Her decision caused her great anguish.
suffering	Suffering is a general term that can be used for either physical or emotional pain. It often implies a more prolonged or chronic condition. He endured years of suffering due to his illness. The refugees are experiencing immense suffering.

Examples of usage

The patient was in agonizing pain after the surgery.
She endured the agony of losing her loved one in the accident.
The agony of defeat was evident on his face after the game.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

extreme emotional pain

Agony can also refer to extreme emotional pain or distress, often associated with deep sorrow, grief, or despair. It is a profound feeling of helplessness and sorrow that can be overwhelming and consuming.

Synonyms

anguish, despair, grief, heartache, sorrow.

Examples of usage

She went through the agony of betrayal when her best friend lied to her.
The parents were in agony over the loss of their child.
The agony of unrequited love haunted him for years.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek 'agōnia,' which means struggle or contest, originally used in the context of athletic competitions.
In ancient history, it was often associated with contests of endurance, reflecting both physical and emotional struggles.
The term has evolved over centuries, with roots in language reflecting suffering, especially in the context of pain endured in life or death.

Psychology

The emotional aspect of agony can relate to feelings of despair or hopelessness, often experienced during challenging life events.
Chronic pain can lead to psychological conditions like depression and anxiety, making the experience of agony multifaceted.
Research shows that the perception of pain can be influenced by emotional states, highlighting the interconnectedness of body and mind.

Literature

Agony is a common theme in literature, often used to depict a character's internal struggle or suffering.
Famous works, like Dante's 'Inferno,' vividly illustrate the concept of agony in the context of sin and punishment.
Poetry often utilizes the word to evoke deep emotions, enhancing the reader's connection to feelings of loss or torment.

Pop Culture

The term 'agony' has been widely used in songs and movies to express emotional turmoil—think of heartbreak or loss.
Popular meme culture has made humorous references to 'agony' during relatable moments of failure or disappointment.
Famous fictional characters, like those in horror films, often scream in agony to highlight deep fear or despair, creating dramatic tension.

Health

Agony can represent not just physical pain, but also the distress associated with heart conditions or severe illnesses.
Mental health issues like PTSD or severe anxiety can trigger feelings of agony, complicating a person’s everyday life.
Understanding how people express or cope with agony can lead to better treatment options in both psychological and physical health fields.

Translations

Translations of the word "agony" in other languages:

🇵🇹 agonia

🇮🇳 पीड़ा

🇩🇪 Qual

🇮🇩 kesakitan

🇺🇦 агонія

🇵🇱 agonia

🇯🇵 苦痛 (くつう)

🇫🇷 agonie

🇪🇸 agonia

🇹🇷 ızdırap

🇰🇷 고통

🇸🇦 عذاب

🇨🇿 agonie

🇸🇰 agónia

🇨🇳 痛苦 (tòngkǔ)

🇸🇮 agonija

🇮🇸 kvöl

🇰🇿 азап

🇬🇪 აგონია

🇦🇿 əziyyət

🇲🇽 agonía

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,431 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8428 oppressed
8429 curb
8430 conveying
8431 agony
8432 cruise
8433 battalion
8434 dotted
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