Sore Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sore

[sɔːr ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

physical condition

Causing physical pain or discomfort.

Synonyms

aching, painful, tender.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sore	Best used to describe a part of the body that is suffering from pain or discomfort, usually due to overuse, injury, or inflammation. It can also refer to emotional pain. My muscles are sore after the workout She felt sore after the argument
painful	Used to describe something that causes intense physical or emotional pain. It has a more severe connotation compared to 'sore' or 'aching'. The cut on my finger is really painful It was a painful memory that she tried to forget
tender	Usually describes skin or a part of the body that is sensitive to touch, often due to injury, infection, or inflammation. It can also describe a gentle or caring emotion. The bruise on my arm is still tender He gave her a tender smile
aching	Typically used to refer to dull, persistent pain often resulting from overuse, fatigue, or strain. It can also describe emotional longing or sorrow. I've been standing all day, and now my feet are aching He had an aching need to see her again

Examples of usage

He had a sore throat and could barely speak.
Her feet were sore after walking all day.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

medical

An open, painful, or inflamed place on the body.

Synonyms

lesion, ulcer, wound.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sore	This word is commonly used for a painful area on the body, typically caused by infection, injury, or overuse. It is not severe and can be easily treated. I have a sore throat from talking too much My muscles are sore after the workout
ulcer	Ulcer refers to a sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or skin. It is usually painful and can be due to various factors like infections or prolonged pressure. He has been diagnosed with a stomach ulcer Bedridden patients often develop pressure ulcers if not properly cared for
wound	This is used for an injury to the body that usually breaks the skin or other tissue caused by an external force such as a cut, blow, or impact. It often needs cleaning and care to heal properly. She sustained a deep wound from the accident Clean the wound thoroughly to prevent infection
lesion	Used in a more medical context to describe any abnormal damage or change in the tissue of an organism. It can be internal or external and may require medical attention. The doctor found a lesion on the patient's liver Skin lesions are often treated with ointments

Examples of usage

He had a sore on his arm that wouldn't heal.
She put ointment on the sore to help it heal.

Translations

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

Origin of 'sore'

The word 'sore' originated from Old English 'sār', meaning painful, severe, grievous. Over time, its meaning evolved to include both physical pain and emotional distress. The usage of 'sore' in English literature dates back to the Middle Ages, where it was commonly used to describe physical injuries and emotional wounds.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,324 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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7321 tile
7322 chip
7323 swift
7324 sore
7325 burdens
7326 catching
7327 rupture
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