Distress: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate for describing a state of severe mental or physical suffering, often used in both medical and emotional contexts.

• She was in clear distress after hearing the bad news
• The animal showed signs of distress when it was caught in the trap

Ideal for describing extreme mental suffering or deep emotional pain, often associated with feelings of despair or grief.

• She felt a deep anguish over the death of her friend
• The parents were in anguish when they couldn't find their child

Best used when describing intense physical or emotional pain; often implies a prolonged or unbearable state.

• He was in agony after breaking his leg
• The loss of a loved one can cause emotional agony

A general term used to describe the state of enduring pain, distress, or hardship. It can be applied to both physical and emotional contexts.

• The patient was experiencing severe suffering due to the illness
• Their suffering was evident during the natural disaster

Distress is used when someone or something is experiencing extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain. It often has an emotional or mental health connotation.

• She was in great distress after hearing the tragic news.
• The distress call from the sinking ship alerted the rescue teams.

Hardship describes a severe suffering or a condition that causes someone to suffer. It often implies long-term struggles or conditions that are difficult to endure.

• The economic crisis brought severe hardship to many families.
• They endured years of hardship before finding stability.

Difficulty refers to something hard to accomplish, understand, or deal with. It is often used in practical situations or to describe challenges.

• He had difficulty understanding the complex math problem.
• She faced many difficulties while trying to start her own business.

Poverty refers to the state of being extremely poor. It is mainly used to describe a lack of financial resources or basic needs.

• Many people in the region live in poverty without access to clean water or proper healthcare.
• The organization works to alleviate poverty in underdeveloped countries.

Distress is used for situations where someone is experiencing extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain. It often implies an urgent or severe state.

• She was in great distress after hearing the tragic news.
• The animal was clearly in distress and needed immediate help.

Upset is used when someone feels unhappy, disappointed, or worried. It often implies a reaction to a specific event or news.

• He was very upset after losing his job.
• She got upset when she found out her friend was moving away.

Trouble is a more general term that can refer to any kind of problem or difficulty. It can also refer to a state of worry or anxiety.

• She's been having trouble with her computer lately.
• If you get into trouble, call me immediately.

Worry is used when someone is continually thinking about potential problems or dangers, leading to anxiety and stress.

• Parents often worry about their children's safety.
• You shouldn't worry too much about things you can't control.