Relief: meaning, definitions and examples

When referring to the feeling of stress or pain being reduced or eliminated, especially after a period of discomfort or anxiety.

• She felt an overwhelming sense of relief when she found out the test results were negative
• The medication brought him immediate relief from the headache

When talking about a state of physical or emotional ease, often provided by someone or something that helps to lessen pain or sorrow.

• She found comfort in her friend's words
• His warm embrace provided her with much-needed comfort

When referring to a state of being less worried, stressed, or having fewer difficulties, often in everyday or informal situations.

• He tried to ease her anxiety before the interview
• The new policy aims to ease traffic congestion in the city

When specifically discussing the reduction of pain, suffering, or distress, often in medical or formal contexts.

• The government is focusing on the alleviation of poverty
• The new drug promises rapid alleviation of chronic pain

Used when someone feels a reduction in pain, stress, or a problem. Often applies to physical or emotional discomfort.

• She felt immediate relief after taking the medication.
• The cool breeze brought relief from the heat.

Used when there is a gradual reduction in something burdensome or difficult. Often used for economic or social conditions.

• The government implemented policies for the easing of trade restrictions.
• Exercises help in the easing of muscle tension.

Used in formal or technical contexts to describe efforts to reduce the severity or seriousness of something, often related to risks or damage.

• Mitigation measures were put in place to prevent flood damage.
• Climate change mitigation is critical for the planet's future.

Used when referring to a solution or cure for a problem, often related to health or legal matters.

• The doctor prescribed a remedy for her cough.
• They sought a legal remedy for the breach of contract.

Used when referring to the physical characteristic of an elevated design on a flat surface, similar to 'bas-relief' but can be in higher or lower elevation.

• The intricate relief on the door depicted scenes from medieval history.
• Artists often use relief techniques to add dimension to their paintings.

Usually used in contexts involving the display of images, emotions, or thoughts outwardly. In art, it refers to a part that extends outward from a surface.

• The projection of the movie was crystal clear.
• The architectural design included a projection that added depth to the building's façade.

Used to describe the technique of creating a raised design on paper, cloth, or other materials, often for decorative purposes.

• The invitation cards had a beautiful gold embossment.
• She admired the embossment on the leather notebook.

Typically used in art and archaeology, this term describes a sculpture technique where the figures are slightly raised from a flat background.

• The museum has an impressive collection of bas-relief panels.
• The ancient Greek temples often feature bas-relief depictions of mythological scenes.