What does plight mean Meaning and Definition
What does plight mean
Pronunciation
/ˈplaɪt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A difficult or unpleasant situation that someone faces or has to deal with.
Examples
- The family faced a plight when their home was destroyed in the hurricane.
- The company’s financial plight led to a significant reduction in staff.
Synonyms
- Difficulty
- Hardship
- Struggle
Antonyms
- Prosperity
- Success
- Opportunity
Etymology
The word ‘plight’ comes from the Old English word ‘plihtan’, which means ‘to bind or pledge’. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe a situation that someone is bound to or has to deal with.
Usage Notes
The word ‘plight’ is often used to describe a situation that is difficult or unpleasant, but it can also be used to describe a situation that is challenging or demanding. It is often used in formal or literary contexts.
Cultural References
The word ‘plight’ has been used in various cultural references, including literature and music. For example, the phrase ‘plight of the damned’ is used in literature to describe a situation that is difficult or unpleasant.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- ‘In a plight to’
- ‘A plight on one’s hands’
Related Words or Phrases
- Misfortune
- Adversity
- Tragedy
Collocations
- ‘The plight of the poor’
- ‘A plight to deal with’
Frequency of Use
The word ‘plight’ is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but it is frequently used in formal or literary contexts.
Common Misspellings
- ‘plite’
- ‘plighte’