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Distress

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.
2. A state of physical or emotional suffering caused by adverse circumstances.
3. A condition of danger or difficulty requiring immediate assistance, such as in maritime or aviation contexts.
4. The legal seizure of someone’s property to secure the performance of an obligation.

History and Origin

The word “distress” originates from the Old French destresse, meaning “oppression” or “misery,” and the Latin districtia, derived from distringere, meaning “to pull apart” or “to compel.” Historically, it referred to hardship or suffering and later broadened to include legal and emergency contexts.

Detailed Explanation

Distress encompasses both emotional and physical suffering. It often refers to feelings of deep sadness, worry, or pain caused by personal or external circumstances. In legal terms, it involves the seizure of property for compensation. In emergency situations, “distress” signifies a plea for immediate help, such as in “distress signals.” Its usage varies widely across emotional, physical, legal, and emergency contexts.

Example Sentences

1. She was in great distress after hearing the tragic news.
2. The ship sent out a distress signal when it started sinking.
3. His financial distress made it difficult to pay his bills.
4. The distressed mother searched frantically for her lost child.
5. The team provided aid to people in distress after the earthquake.
6. The sound of a baby crying in distress echoed through the room.
7. He was distressed by the negative feedback on his project.
8. The legal distress of her property added to her troubles.
9. The plane declared distress before making an emergency landing.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Anguish – Severe mental or emotional suffering.
2. Agony – Extreme physical or mental pain.
3. Hardship – Severe suffering or difficulty.
4. Misery – A state of great unhappiness or suffering.
5. Trouble – Difficulty or distress caused by adverse conditions.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Anxiety – A state of nervousness or unease.
2. Grief – Intense sorrow, often due to loss.
3. Suffering – The experience of pain or distress.
4. Desperation – A state of despair due to distressing circumstances.
5. Crisis – A time of intense difficulty or danger.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Worry – Feeling troubled about something.
2. Sadness – A state of unhappiness or sorrow.
3. Alarm – A sudden sense of fear or urgency.
4. Despair – A complete loss of hope.
5. Oppression – Prolonged cruel or unjust treatment.

Antonyms

1. Comfort
2. Relief
3. Peace
4. Joy
5. Tranquility