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Anguish

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Severe pain, suffering, or distress, especially mental or emotional.
2. Extreme sorrow or grief, often resulting from a traumatic event or situation.
3. Intense physical or mental suffering, usually accompanied by feelings of despair.

History and Origin

The word “anguish” comes from the Latin angustia, meaning “narrowness,” or “a tightness” (as in being trapped or confined). It evolved through Old French anguisse and Middle English angwisshe, referring to both physical and emotional pain. The term has been used in English since the 13th century to describe feelings of intense distress or suffering, particularly mental or emotional.

Detailed Explanation

“Anguish” refers to a profound level of suffering, typically involving a combination of mental, emotional, and sometimes physical pain. It is more intense than mere sadness or discomfort, representing a state of torment or agony.

In emotional terms, anguish is often linked to loss, disappointment, or traumatic experiences, such as the death of a loved one, a devastating personal failure, or a catastrophic event. It can also refer to feelings of inner turmoil, regret, or guilt.

Though anguish is often experienced internally, it can also be accompanied by visible expressions of distress, such as crying, trembling, or physical pain. In a broader sense, it can describe any situation that causes intense discomfort or suffering.

Example Sentences

1. She felt great anguish after hearing the news of her friend’s sudden death.
2. The anguish on his face was evident as he tried to process the tragic loss.
3. The family endured years of anguish while waiting for their missing loved one to return.
4. He was filled with anguish when he realized he had made a grave mistake.
5. The anguish of losing everything in the fire was overwhelming.
6. The mother’s anguish was palpable as she searched for her child in the crowded area.
7. His anguish turned into anger as he confronted the person who betrayed him.
8. The survivors of the disaster spoke of their anguish during interviews.
9. In the movie, the character’s anguish over the decision to leave her family was heart-wrenching.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Suffering – The state of experiencing pain or distress, either physical or emotional.
2. Torment – Intense suffering, especially of the mind or emotions.
3. Misery – A state of great unhappiness or discomfort, often as a result of emotional or physical distress.
4. Grief – Deep sorrow or mourning, particularly from loss or tragedy.
5. Distress – A state of extreme anxiety, pain, or discomfort, often related to emotional or physical situations.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Despair – The complete loss of hope, often associated with emotional anguish.
2. Heartache – Emotional pain or sorrow, often from a personal loss or relationship issues.
3. Regret – A feeling of sorrow or remorse, often associated with anguish over past actions.
4. Woe – A state of deep distress or suffering, often referring to personal misfortune.
5. Anger – Intense emotion that can sometimes arise from or be a reaction to feelings of anguish.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Affliction – A state of suffering or hardship, often referring to prolonged anguish.
2. Pain – Physical or emotional suffering, which can lead to or result in anguish.
3. Betrayal – A breach of trust that can cause deep anguish and emotional pain.
4. Loneliness – A state of isolation that can result in emotional anguish and despair.
5. Regret – The sorrow or remorse one feels after realizing an irreversible action, often leading to anguish.

Antonyms

1. Contentment
2. Happiness
3. Joy
4. Peace
5. Satisfaction