obviate suffering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obviate suffering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions or measures taken to prevent or eliminate suffering in various contexts, such as healthcare, social issues, or personal well-being. Example: "The new policy aims to obviate suffering among the most vulnerable populations by providing essential resources and support."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In order to obviate suffering, mice were sacrificed through cervical dislocation whenever they reached peak parasitaemias.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

That fact does not obviate their suffering.

The New Yorker

A patient in an an apallic state may be expected to have no perception of pain, therefore obviating any end-of-life decisions in the present situation based on ending the patient's suffering.

Critical Care

"Not suffering.

The New Yorker

Suffering Sappho.

The New Yorker

are suffering.

The New Yorker

His grades are suffering.

The New York Times

"The people are suffering".

The New York Times

Suffering condemns me!

The New Yorker

I'm suffering.

The New Yorker

I lay here, suffering".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "obviate suffering" in formal or scientific contexts where a precise and somewhat elevated tone is appropriate. It's particularly useful when discussing systemic or preventative measures aimed at completely avoiding suffering.

Common error

Avoid using "obviate suffering" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "prevent suffering" or "reduce suffering" are more appropriate for everyday communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obviate suffering" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "obviate" acts as a transitive verb taking "suffering" as its direct object. It indicates an action taken to remove or prevent suffering, as shown in the example Ludwig provides from PlosOne.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "obviate suffering" is a grammatically correct but relatively uncommon expression that means to prevent or eliminate suffering. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable, however, its formal tone makes it more suitable for scientific, academic, and formal contexts rather than everyday conversation. Alternatives like "prevent suffering" or "reduce suffering" are often more appropriate for general use. The phrase is not widely used, as evidenced by its rare occurrence in diverse sources. When aiming for precision and a sophisticated tone in discussing preventative measures, "obviate suffering" can be a valuable choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prevent suffering

Focuses on stopping suffering before it starts, rather than removing existing suffering. It is a broader and more common term.

alleviate suffering

Emphasizes reducing the intensity of suffering, not necessarily eliminating it entirely. Suggests a less complete removal.

ease suffering

Similar to "alleviate suffering", but implies a more gentle and gradual reduction of suffering.

mitigate suffering

Focuses on lessening the severity of suffering, suggesting an effort to reduce impact or consequences.

eliminate suffering

Indicates a complete removal of suffering, offering a stronger sense of finality compared to "obviate".

reduce suffering

A general term meaning to make suffering less in amount or intensity. Less formal than "obviate".

ameliorate suffering

Similar to "alleviate", but often implies improving the conditions that cause suffering, providing a more comprehensive solution.

forestall suffering

Highlights the act of preventing suffering from occurring in the future. Emphasizes proactive measures.

avert suffering

Focuses on turning away or warding off suffering, often suggesting a quick or decisive action.

relieve suffering

Implies providing comfort or temporary respite from suffering. Suggests a more immediate, short-term action.

FAQs

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

You can use "obviate suffering" to describe actions or policies designed to prevent or eliminate suffering. For example: "The new healthcare initiative aims to "obviate suffering" among vulnerable populations."

What are some alternatives to "obviate suffering"?

Alternatives include "prevent suffering", "alleviate suffering", and "reduce suffering". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "obviate suffering" a common phrase?

No, "obviate suffering" is not a very common phrase. It is more frequently used in formal writing, scientific publications, and other technical contexts. More common alternatives include "prevent suffering" and "reduce suffering".

What is the difference between "alleviate suffering" and "obviate suffering"?

Alleviate suffering implies reducing the intensity or severity of suffering, while "obviate suffering" suggests completely eliminating or preventing it. "Obviate" is a stronger and more definitive term.