Suffering Meaning and Definition
Suffering
Pronunciation
/ˈsʌfərɪŋ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
Suffering (noun): Feeling, showing, or expressing extreme pain, distress, or anguish; a state of enduring a cause or condition of grief, pain, or distress.
Examples
- She felt immense suffering after losing her loved one.
- The refugee camp was a place of great suffering.
Synonyms
- Agony
- Pain
- Misery
Antonyms
- Bliss
- Happiness
- Comfort
Additional Information
Suffering is a universal human experience that can be caused by various factors, including physical or emotional trauma, social injustices, or chronic pain. It can also be a result of mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. Understanding and addressing suffering is crucial in promoting empathy, compassion, and human rights. Suffering can be a catalyst for personal growth, as individuals seek to find meaning and purpose in the face of adversity. Additionally, suffering can be a reminder of the importance of kindness, generosity, and support towards those who are struggling. Many organizations and individuals work tirelessly to alleviate suffering by providing aid, resources, and advocacy for those in need.
Etymology
The word “suffering” comes from the Old French word “souffrir,” which means “to feel pain or distress.” This word is derived from the Latin “sufficere,” which means “to bear or endure.” The concept of suffering has been present in human culture and literature for centuries, with ancient philosophers and writers exploring its nature and significance.
Usage Notes
Suffering can be used in various contexts, including personal experiences, social justice, and mental health. When using the word, it’s essential to be sensitive to the experiences of others and avoid trivializing or minimizing their suffering. Additionally, using “suffering” in a descriptive or poetic sense can be effective in conveying emotions and ideas.
Cultural References
Suffering has been a recurring theme in literature, art, and music throughout history. Examples include:
- The works of philosophers such as Aristotle and Epicurus, who explored the nature of suffering and its relationship to human happiness.
- The poetry of William Wordsworth, who wrote about the suffering of the human spirit in his poem “The Prelude.”
- The music of artists such as Bob Dylan, who sang about suffering and social justice in his song “The Times They Are a-Changin’.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idiomatic expressions that include the word “suffering” are:
- “Suffering in silence” – enduring pain or distress without expressing it.
- “Suffering fools gladly” – tolerating or accepting foolish or annoying behavior.
- “Suffering the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune” – enduring hardships and misfortunes.
Related Words or Phrases
Words and phrases closely related to “suffering” include:
- Pain
- Misery
- Agony
- Distress
- Anguish
Collocations
Common word combinations with “suffering” include:
- Suffering from
- Causing suffering
- Enduring suffering
- Minimizing suffering
- Alleviating suffering
Frequency of Use
The word “suffering” is commonly used in various contexts, including personal experiences, social justice, and mental health. According to the Corpus of Contemporary American English, “suffering” is used in approximately 1.4% of all written texts.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of “suffering” include:
- Sufferingg
- Sufferinge
- Suffering