Excruciate: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is typically used to describe intense, severe physical or mental pain. It is often found in medical or highly dramatic contexts.

• The migraine excruciated him for hours.
• The memory of the accident continues to excruciate her.

Torture is often associated with the deliberate infliction of severe physical pain or cruel treatment, typically for punishment, revenge, or interrogation. It has a strong negative connotation.

• Prisoners were subjected to acts of brutal torture.
• The suspense was like a form of mental torture.

Torment can describe both physical and mental pain, often implying a prolonged or repeated suffering. It can also suggest emotional distress caused by others, as well as self-inflicted mental anguish.

• The relentless bullying tormented him throughout his childhood.
• She was tormented by regret and guilt.

This word is usually used to describe mental pain or extreme worry, often over a difficult decision or situation. It conveys a sense of ongoing, intense emotional suffering.

• She agonized over the decision for days.
• He couldn't help but agonize about the safety of his family.

This word is used when referring to something causing intense physical or mental pain. It is typically used in extreme situations where the pain or suffering is incredibly severe.

• The injury excruciated him, leaving him in constant agony.
• The betrayal by her closest friend excruciated her emotionally.

This word implies ongoing or repeated pain and suffering, whether physical or emotional. It often has a connotation of cruelty or malicious infliction.

• The hostage was tormented by his captors for days.
• He was tormented by guilt over his past mistakes.

This term is often used to describe a state of severe mental or emotional suffering. It can also be used in physical contexts but is more common in psychological contexts.

• She felt deep anguish after the loss of her pet.
• The decision caused him great anguish, as both options seemed equally painful.

This word is used in situations involving anxiety, sorrow, or pain. It can refer to both physical and emotional states, usually indicating a less intense suffering than 'excruciate' or 'anguish'.

• The news of the accident put her in a state of distress.
• He signaled for help, clearly in distress.