Painfully Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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painfully
[ˈpeɪnfəli ]
Definition
adverb describing an action
In a way that causes physical or emotional pain; in a manner that is distressing or difficult to endure.
Synonyms
agonizingly, distressingly, sorrowfully, torturously, uncomfortably.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| painfully |
This word is used when something causes physical or emotional pain. It is generally neutral and doesn't imply extreme suffering.
|
| sorrowfully |
This word is used when someone's emotion is filled with deep sadness or grief. It's often appropriate for describing emotional pain related to loss or disappointment.
|
| agonizingly |
Use this word to describe something that causes extreme and prolonged physical or mental pain. It conveys a stronger sense of suffering than 'painfully'.
|
| distressingly |
This word is applied when something causes extreme worry, anxiety, or despair. It's often used to describe situations or news.
|
| uncomfortably |
Use this word when something causes discomfort or unease, either physically or mentally. It suggests a milder form of distress or inconvenience.
|
| torturously |
Often used to describe something with an element of extreme and prolonged suffering that resembles torture. It implies both physical and mental pain.
|
Examples of usage
- He was walking painfully after the accident.
- She spoke painfully about her past experiences.
- The memories came flooding back painfully.
- His absence was painfully noticeable.
- The truth was painfully clear.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In poetry, writers often use 'painfully' to express deep emotions, creating vivid imagery of suffering and loss.
- Notable authors like Virginia Woolf and Kafka used the word to portray intense experiences and existential dilemmas in their works.
Psychology
- The experience of pain can be both physical and emotional, and researchers have found that emotional pain activates similar brain regions as physical pain.
- Acknowledging emotional pain is essential in therapies, as it helps individuals explore and heal from their struggles.
Pop Culture
- The word frequently appears in song lyrics, often to convey struggles and feelings of heartache, making it relatable to audiences.
- Films often use 'painfully' in dialogue to emphasize characters' deep emotional suffering, enhancing the viewer's connection to the story.
Health
- Understanding the difference between physical and emotional pain can aid in better mental health practices and treatment options.
- Pain management advocates stress the importance of recognizing and validating pain experiences to improve quality of life.
Origin of 'painfully'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'pæna', which means physical suffering, combined with 'fully' to intensify the experience.
- It has been used since the 15th century to describe intense sensations of distress.
The word 'painfully' is derived from the Middle English word 'peynful', which comes from the Old French word 'penible'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The adverb 'painfully' has evolved over time to describe actions that cause physical or emotional pain in a distressing or difficult manner.
See also: pain, painful, painfulness, painkiller, painkillers, painstakingly.