Traumatic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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traumatic
[trɔːˈmætɪk ]
Definitions
psychological
Causing severe emotional distress or discomfort, often as a result of a disturbing experience.
Synonyms
distressing, disturbing, upsetting.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| traumatic |
Use this word when referring to an experience that causes severe emotional or psychological harm, often with long-lasting effects. It's often associated with life-altering events like accidents, abuse, or significant loss.
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| distressing |
This term is suitable for describing situations that cause significant anxiety, worry, or sorrow, but may not necessarily have long-lasting effects. It can be used in everyday scenarios as well as more serious ones.
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| upsetting |
Use this word for situations that cause mild to moderate emotional pain or disappointment. It's typically less intense than 'traumatic' or 'distressing'.
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| disturbing |
This word fits when referring to something that causes discomfort, unease, or agitation. It's often used for things that are shocking or morally troubling.
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Examples of usage
- The car accident was a traumatic experience for her.
- The loss of a loved one can be very traumatic.
medical
Relating to or caused by a physical injury or wound.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| traumatic |
Use when referring to experiences or events that cause deep emotional distress or psychological impact.
|
| injurious |
Used in more formal contexts to indicate something that causes injury or damage, usually physical but can also be applied to reputations and rights.
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| harmful |
Appropriate when discussing something that has the potential to cause harm or injury, usually physical or health-related, but also environmental or societal.
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| damaging |
Applied to describe effects that cause harm, deterioration, or adverse outcomes, often physically or to reputations and relationships.
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Examples of usage
- The patient suffered traumatic injuries in the accident.
- The surgery was necessary to treat the traumatic brain injury.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Traumatic experiences can lead to conditions like PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
- Not everyone who experiences a traumatic event will develop lasting effects; it varies by individual.
- Childhood trauma can significantly influence adult mental health and behavior.
Pop Culture
- Films often explore themes of trauma, demonstrating how characters cope or fail to cope with their experiences.
- Many songs address personal trauma, providing listeners with a sense of understanding and connection.
- Authors like Toni Morrison and John Green have vividly illustrated characters dealing with trauma in their novels.
Science
- Research shows that trauma can change brain structures and functions, affecting memory and emotions.
- Neuroscientists study trauma's impact on the brain to develop better treatments for affected individuals.
- Studies indicate that support systems and therapeutic interventions can significantly mitigate trauma's effects.
Literature
- Trauma is a central theme in numerous literary works, highlighting characters' struggles and resilience.
- Classics like 'The Catcher in the Rye' often depict inner turmoil stemming from traumatic events.
- Memoirs of trauma can offer powerful narratives of survival, such as Elie Wiesel's 'Night' and Malala Yousafzai's 'I Am Malala.'
Origin of 'traumatic'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Greek word 'trauma,' meaning 'wound' or 'injury.'
- In the 19th century, it began to be used to describe emotional injuries, not just physical ones.
- The term gained popularity in psychological contexts, especially after World War I, to describe veterans' experiences.
The word 'traumatic' originated from the Greek word 'traumatikos', meaning 'wounding'. It first appeared in English in the mid-17th century. The term has evolved to encompass both psychological and physical aspects of injury or distress, reflecting the understanding of trauma in modern society.
See also: trauma, traumatized.