inflict wound

USAGE SUMMARY

"inflict wound" is an appropriate phrase to use in written English.
You could use it when referring to the act of causing a physical injury to someone or something by a force or by a weapon. For example, "He intended to inflict a wound on his enemy with the sword."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The twist: You can inflict wounds with unprecedented specificity.

The New York Times - Tech

The parents, meanwhile, who need extra attention from their children, inflict wounds, too.

The New York Times - Style

But both men say they have been careful not to inflict wounds on each other that the Republicans could turn into fatal injuries in November's general election.

The New York Times

In "Dance of Death," Edgar and Alice (Ian McKellen and Helen Mirren) — a military captain and a former actress — go at each other relentlessly, each knowing how to inflict wounds with precision and economy, and how to keep them open.

The New Yorker

The scars will inflict wounds that may not be mortal, but sow animosities and enmity for decades.

Huffington Post

"I've seen him inflict wounds on himself, cut himself; break his collarbone and not seek any treatment.

Vice

These features suggest that the upper jaw was used like a serrated club to inflict wounds; big sauropods would have been weakened by repeated attacks.

Wikipedia

The collected quotes describe an array of courageous processes of overcoming the negative remarks that still, in this day of "post racialism" continue to inflict wounds.

Huffington Post

He will get another chance to inflict wounds upon his old club in the replay that will follow the dour 0-0 draw but the homecoming felt particularly significant.

Vice

Such toxic thoughts and actions inflict wounds on transgender persons, and like a virus clearly spread to damage others that get caught up in their wake.

Huffington Post

Furthermore, fighting animals would be expected to inflict wounds to the head [32] or vulnerable areas such as the neck and flanks, and not the feet or arms.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "inflict wound" when you want to emphasize the act of causing a specific physical injury, particularly in contexts involving conflict, violence, or medical procedures. Consider synonyms for less graphic depictions.

Common error

Avoid using "inflict wound" when describing emotional or psychological harm. While technically applicable, it can sound overly dramatic or inappropriate. Opt for phrases like "cause pain" or "damage feelings" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inflict wound" functions primarily as a verb phrase with a direct object. It describes the act of causing physical harm or injury. Ludwig AI indicates its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "inflict wound" is grammatically sound but has limited frequency according to Ludwig. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage. The phrase is most commonly used in neutral contexts, but can also be found in more formal or dramatic settings. When using "inflict wound", it's important to consider the tone and avoid overuse in metaphorical contexts where less intense phrases might be more appropriate. Alternative phrases such as "cause injury", "deal a blow", or "cause damage" offer nuanced ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause injury

This alternative focuses on the result of the action, the injury itself, rather than the method.

stab wound

This suggests the usage of an object such as a knife that will pierce through the skin.

deal a blow

This implies a forceful action that causes harm, either physically or metaphorically.

deliver a strike

Similar to "deal a blow", this suggests a focused and intentional act of harm.

cause damage

This phrase broadens the scope to include non-physical harm or negative impact.

administer a beating

This alternative indicates a more severe and prolonged physical assault.

cut open

This alternative emphasizes the act of creating an open wound through cutting.

make a gash

This refers specifically to an open wound, emphasizing the visual aspect of the injury.

draw blood

This is a direct and somewhat graphic way of indicating that someone has been injured.

leave a scar

This emphasizes the lasting impact of the injury, both physically and emotionally.

FAQs

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

You can use "inflict wound" to describe the act of causing physical harm, such as "The attacker intended to inflict a serious wound with the knife". Consider alternatives like "cause injury" depending on the context.

What are some alternatives to "inflict wound"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases such as "cause injury", "deal a blow", or "cause damage". Each carries slightly different connotations.

Is it appropriate to use "inflict wound" in non-physical contexts?

While technically possible, using "inflict wound" in metaphorical contexts (e.g., emotional harm) can sound overly dramatic. Consider less intense phrases like "cause pain" or "damage feelings".

What's the difference between "inflict wound" and "sustain a wound"?

"Inflict wound" refers to the action of causing the injury, while "sustain a wound" refers to receiving or suffering the injury. For example, "The soldier inflicted a wound on the enemy" versus "The soldier sustained a wound during the battle".