Agony: meaning, definitions and examples

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 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.

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 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 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 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.