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Inflict Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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inflict

[ɪnˈflɪkt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

injury

to cause something painful or harmful to be suffered by someone or something

Synonyms

bring about, cause, impose.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inflict

Typically used when talking about causing harm, pain, or suffering, often in a deliberate or negative way.

  • The dictator inflicted severe punishments on anyone who opposed his regime
  • The storm inflicted a lot of damage on the small coastal town
impose

Often used when talking about enforcing rules, regulations, or consequences, usually in a way that suggests authority or control. It can have a negative connotation.

  • The government decided to impose a curfew to control the situation
  • The manager imposed strict deadlines to ensure the project stayed on track
cause

A general term used to describe making something happen, with a focus on the direct or indirect consequences. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

  • The heavy rain caused flooding in many parts of the city
  • His actions caused a lot of confusion among his colleagues
bring about

Commonly used to describe causing something to happen, especially changes or events, in a more neutral or positive manner.

  • Her hard work and dedication brought about significant improvements in the company
  • The new law is expected to bring about many positive changes in the education system

Examples of usage

  • Inflicting pain on animals is unacceptable.
  • She was found guilty of inflicting serious injuries on her husband.
  • The storm inflicted extensive damage to the crops.
  • He was known for inflicting punishment on his subordinates.
  • The disease inflicts severe pain on its victims.
Context #2 | Verb

punishment

to impose something unwelcome or harmful on someone

Synonyms

administer, apply, impose.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inflict

Use 'inflict' when causing something unpleasant or harmful to someone or something, often intentionally. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The villain inflicted pain on the hero.
  • The storm inflicted severe damage on the town.
impose

Use 'impose' when enforcing rules, laws, restrictions, or penalties on others, often without their consent. This word can have a negative connotation.

  • The government imposed a new tax on luxury items.
  • She didn't want to impose her views on others.
apply

Use 'apply' when referring to putting something into operation or use, such as a rule, method, or ointment. This word is generally neutral.

  • Apply the cream to the affected area twice daily.
  • He applied for a job at the new company.
administer

Use 'administer' when referring to giving or managing something, such as a treatment, service, or policy. This word usually has a neutral or positive connotation.

  • The nurse administered the medication to the patient.
  • The principal administered the school's new policy effectively.

Examples of usage

  • The court can inflict a fine or imprisonment as punishment.
  • The teacher inflicted detention on the misbehaving students.
  • The criminal was inflicted with a life sentence.
  • The dictator inflicted torture on political dissidents.
  • The principal can inflict suspension as a disciplinary measure.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal contexts, to inflict injury often requires proving intent, meaning it is necessary to show that someone meant to cause harm.
  • Inflicting emotional distress can be a basis for civil lawsuits, showing that harm can include psychological as well as physical aspects.
  • Terms like 'infliction of bodily harm' refer specifically to physical injuries resulting from intentional actions.

Psychology

  • The act of inflicting pain on others can arise from various psychological issues, such as aggression or unresolved trauma.
  • Understanding why some individuals inflict harm reveals important aspects of human behavior and the need for empathy.
  • Infliction can also occur in self-harm scenarios, where individuals hurt themselves due to emotional distress.

Literature

  • Several literary works explore the theme of infliction, often depicting how characters cope with harm caused by others.
  • In classic tragedies, protagonists frequently face inflicted suffering as a consequence of their choices or fate.
  • Philosophical texts frequently discuss concepts of moral responsibility related to inflicting pain, exploring the ethical implications of actions.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies and shows emphasize the theme of infliction, portraying villains who cause harm to others as a central conflict.
  • Popular video games often feature characters who inflict damage in combat, highlighting the action and agency within fictional narratives.
  • The concept of inflicting harm is recurrent in songs and literature, often used to express emotional pain and resilience.

Origin of 'inflict'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'infligere', where 'in-' means 'on' and 'fligere' means 'to strike'.
  • The term has been used in English since the late 15th century, initially appearing in texts related to punishment.
  • Related words include 'inflictive' (causing harm) and 'infliction' (the act of causing pain).

The word 'inflict' originated from the Latin word 'inflictus', which means 'struck upon'. It entered the English language in the mid-16th century. The concept of inflicting harm or punishment has been a part of human history for centuries, often used in legal and military contexts. The word has evolved to represent the action of causing pain or harm upon someone or something.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,696, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.