inflict suffering

USAGE SUMMARY

"inflict suffering" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to refer to the deliberate infliction of pain on another person or group. You can use it in parentheses such as "Those who carry out torturous acts (i.e. inflict suffering) often have no remorse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"If I don't go through with it, my choice is essentially to suffer and to inflict suffering on my family, and then die".

The New York Times

It has inspired people to endure suffering, overcome suffering and inflict suffering on others.

The New York Times - Magazine

"You can't allow transparency, if what you're trying to do is inflict suffering.

The Guardian

A strike would inevitably inflict suffering: cruise missiles are remarkably accurate, but can all too easily kill civilians.

The Economist

The logic might have been flawed; it might have stopped working long ago; it might inflict suffering on others.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The people want to inflict suffering on a corporation, but they don't know what the number should be".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

To cut a long story short, he was born; he lived; he wrote books; he inflicted suffering and occasionally suffered himself.

The New Yorker

They are individuals in their own right, suffering and inflicting suffering.

The Guardian - Film

It is a preventable crisis that is inflicting suffering on patients and, in some cases, causing needless deaths.

The New York Times

At a recent seminar on the Gaza conflict, he explained that Israelis had "learnt from the Nazis" in inflicting suffering.

The Economist

By keeping Iraq poor, the sanctions have inflicted suffering on Iraq's people and so brought America and its allies into disrepute in much of the Arab world.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "inflict suffering" when you want to emphasize the deliberate and direct action of causing pain or distress to someone or something. It's particularly effective in contexts where responsibility and intent are central to the message.

Common error

Avoid using "inflict suffering" when describing unintentional harm or indirect consequences. The phrase implies a clear intention to cause pain, so using it inaccurately can misrepresent the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inflict suffering" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It denotes the action of causing pain, distress, or harm to someone or something. Ludwig indicates that it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Huffington Post

8%

Vice

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "inflict suffering" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that denotes the deliberate act of causing pain or distress. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in news, media, scientific, and encyclopedic sources, this phrase carries a neutral to formal tone. When writing, remember that it implies intent, so use it carefully to accurately represent the situation. Consider alternatives like "cause suffering" or "impose suffering" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause suffering

A more general term that may include unintentional actions.

impose suffering

Emphasizes authority or power dynamics in the act.

create suffering

Highlights the generation or origination of suffering.

induce suffering

Suggests a more indirect or manipulative means of causing suffering.

bring about suffering

Focuses on the consequence or result of an action.

visit suffering upon

A more literary or archaic way to describe inflicting suffering.

wreak havoc

Implies widespread destruction and suffering.

cause anguish

Focuses on emotional or mental suffering.

perpetrate cruelty

Highlights the malicious and inhumane nature of the act.

subject to torment

Emphasizes prolonged and intense suffering.

FAQs

How can I use "inflict suffering" in a sentence?

You can use "inflict suffering" to describe actions that deliberately cause pain or distress, for example: "The dictator was known for his willingness to "inflict suffering" on his political opponents."

What are some alternatives to "inflict suffering"?

Alternatives include "cause suffering", "impose suffering", or "create suffering", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "inflict suffering" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing legal, ethical, or moral issues. However, ensure the context aligns with the phrase's strong and deliberate connotation.

What is the difference between "inflict suffering" and "experience suffering"?

"Inflict suffering" refers to the act of causing pain or distress, while "experience suffering" refers to the state of undergoing pain or distress. One is the action, and the other is the condition.