extreme suffering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extreme suffering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of intense pain or distress, often in contexts related to health, emotional experiences, or difficult situations. Example: "The documentary highlighted the extreme suffering endured by the victims of the natural disaster."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

To observe that a play about extreme suffering is also explosively funny might seem absurd.

The New York Times

So what keeps them from supporting government investments to alleviate extreme suffering?

The New York Times

He lived about twenty-four hours after the accident occurred in extreme suffering.

The New Yorker

It is natural to react to extreme suffering with rage, and sometimes rage goes too far.

The New York Times - Books

As Larrimore points out, such a method has the problem of omitting the matter of the hero's extreme suffering.

The New Yorker

"I've formed the opinion," writes performance artist and painter Bobby Baker, "that psychosis is a metaphor for extreme suffering".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

The received wisdom — that the extreme sufferings of ordinary folk do not merit exploitation — is correct.

The New Yorker

Now pity is directed to those in extreme distress whose suffering appears undeserved or excessive.

SEP

This is a desperate situation of increasingly extreme humanitarian suffering.

The Guardian

Does this swarming scene therefore portray the threat to mental health posed by extreme physical suffering?

The Guardian

The economic impact of the Great Depression was enormous, including both extreme human suffering and profound changes in economic policy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about sensitive topics like "extreme suffering", prioritize empathy and respect in your language. Avoid sensationalizing or trivializing the experiences of those affected.

Common error

Avoid relying on tired expressions or euphemisms when describing "extreme suffering". Use precise and evocative language to convey the true impact of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extreme suffering" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "extreme" modifies the noun "suffering". It describes a state of intense and severe pain or distress. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

22%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "extreme suffering" is a grammatically correct and widely used term to describe intense pain and distress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys the severity of a situation, often prompting empathy and action. Predominantly found in news and media, scientific articles, and encyclopedias, the phrase maintains a neutral to formal register. While alternatives like "intense agony" or "severe distress" exist, "extreme suffering" remains a direct and impactful way to communicate profound hardship. When using this phrase, it's essential to prioritize sensitivity and avoid clichés to accurately represent the experiences of those affected.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intense agony

Focuses on the physical and emotional intensity of the pain.

severe distress

Highlights the psychological and emotional anguish experienced.

acute hardship

Emphasizes the difficult and challenging nature of the suffering.

profound misery

Underscores the depth and pervasiveness of the unhappiness.

unbearable pain

Stresses the limit of what can be endured.

excruciating torment

Focuses on the torturous aspect of the suffering, both physical and mental.

grievous affliction

Highlights the burden and source of the suffering.

intolerable anguish

Emphasizes the inability to bear the emotional or mental distress.

desperate plight

Focuses on the severity and hopelessness of the situation causing the suffering.

consuming sorrow

Highlights the all-encompassing nature of the grief.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "extreme suffering" in a sentence?

You can use "extreme suffering" to describe situations where individuals or groups are experiencing intense physical, emotional, or psychological pain. For instance, "The report detailed the "extreme suffering" of refugees fleeing the war-torn country."

What are some alternatives to "extreme suffering"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "intense agony", "severe distress", or "profound misery" to convey similar meanings.

Is it appropriate to use "extreme suffering" in formal writing?

Yes, "extreme suffering" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when reporting on humanitarian crises, medical conditions, or historical events. However, ensure that the tone remains objective and respectful.

What is the difference between "extreme suffering" and "ordinary suffering"?

"Extreme suffering" denotes a level of pain and distress that is beyond the typical range of human experience. It implies a severity that significantly impacts an individual's or group's well-being, whereas "ordinary suffering" refers to the everyday challenges and discomforts that are a normal part of life.