Suffering

Definition

Suffering encompasses a state or experience of enduring pain, distress, or hardship. It often refers to physical pain but can also include emotional or psychological distress.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (base form: suffer)

Pronunciation

American English:

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsʌfərɪŋ/
• Respelling: SUF-uh-ring (with "SUF" as in "suffer," "er" as in "her," and "ing" as in "ring")

British English:

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsʌfərɪŋ/
• Respelling: SUF-uh-ring (similar to American English, with "SUF" as in "suffer," "er" like in "her," and "ing" as in "ring")

In both dialects, "suffering" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "SUF." The pronunciation is consistent between American and British English, clearly reflecting the word's structure and emphasis.

Etymology

The term "suffering" has its roots in the Old French sofrir, which is derived from Latin sufferre, from sub- (under, from below) and ferre (to bear, carry). The word has been part of the English language since the 13th century, signifying to undergo or endure hardship or pain.

Derivatives

• Suffer
• Sufferable
• Sufferance
• Sufferer
• Insufferable

Synonyms

• Agony
• Misery
• Distress

Antonyms

• Joy
• Happiness
• Comfort

Usage

The word "suffering" is predominantly used to describe a state or condition of enduring pain, distress, or hardship. It is applicable in both physical and mental or emotional contexts. Moreover, it's a term heavily utilized in religious, philosophical, and humanitarian discussions to address the conditions of existence, empathy, and aid.

Related Terms

• Pain
• Hardship
• Distress
• Endurance

Detailed Definition

Noun

• State of Endurance: A condition or state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship.‍
• Example: Many people experience suffering in various forms throughout their lives.

• Physical Pain: Physical discomfort or the condition of feeling pain.‍
• Example: His suffering was evident through his grimaces of pain.

Verb

• Undergo Hardship: To undergo or endure hardship, pain, or distress.‍
• Example: She has suffered a lot in the past year due to the loss of her job.

• Tolerate: To tolerate or bear.‍
• Example: He can't suffer fools gladly.