state of suffering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "state of suffering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a condition or situation characterized by pain, distress, or hardship. Example: "The novel explores the protagonist's state of suffering as they navigate through their traumatic past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Francis kisses a leper, speaks to the birds, receives the stigmata, dies in a state of suffering joy.

The New Yorker

The trouble is that this argument leaves dying people preserved in a state of suffering without any chance to choose oblivion instead.

The Economist

Oscar Lucchini, an architect who supports San Lorenzo from the stands, once said that when Francis was a cardinal, "He told us he lives in a permanent state of suffering for San Lorenzo".

The New York Times - Sports

He spends a lot of his appearances in Jim Woodring's comics in a state of suffering.

Vice

People that don't appreciate the nuances of their lives live in a constant state of suffering.

Huffington Post

This non-focused flickering is an intentional tool of the ego used to perpetuate confusion, attachments to duality and a resulting state of suffering.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Every two months suffering was assessed with the State-of-Suffering V (SOS-V).

BMC Palliative Care

To realize this study the State-of-Suffering V (SOS-V) was developed.

BMC Palliative Care

Every two months patients quantified intensity as well as unbearability of 69 symptoms with the State-of-Suffering-V (SOS-V).

BMC Family Practice

The State-of-Suffering-V (SOS-V) was developed [ 28], an instrument directed at assessing the experience of unbearable suffering of the whole person [ 11].

BMC Family Practice

In the absence of a suitable measuring device, the State-of-Suffering-V (SOS-V) was developed: a quantitative instrument with a comprehensive design, measuring unbearable suffering in five domains.

BMC Palliative Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about sensitive topics like suffering, maintain an empathetic and respectful tone. Avoid sensationalizing the experience, and prioritize accuracy and sensitivity in your language.

Common error

Avoid using overused or tired phrases to describe suffering, such as "unimaginable pain" or "unspeakable sorrow". Instead, focus on concrete details and specific experiences to convey the impact of the suffering more effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "state of suffering" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in describing a condition or situation marked by pain and distress, as shown in various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Huffington Post

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

3%

The New Yorker

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "state of suffering" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe conditions marked by pain, distress, or hardship. Ludwig AI validates its versatility across various contexts, particularly in news media and scientific domains. While the phrase can be used in both formal and informal settings, it is crucial to maintain an empathetic tone when addressing sensitive topics related to suffering. Alternatives such as "condition of distress" or "period of anguish" offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts. Avoiding clichés and focusing on specific details will enhance the impact and clarity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

experience of agony

Concentrates on intense physical or mental pain.

condition of distress

Focuses on general unease or hardship, rather than specifically suffering.

moment of torment

Focuses on a brief but intense episode of suffering.

period of anguish

Highlights a specific timeframe characterized by severe mental or physical pain.

phase of anguish

Denotes a specific period marked by severe mental or physical suffering.

time of affliction

Emphasizes a period marked by pain, trouble, or distress.

existence of misery

Implies a pervasive and deep-seated unhappiness or suffering.

situation of hardship

Points to challenging circumstances or difficulties.

era of torment

Suggests a prolonged or continuous period of extreme suffering.

life of wretchedness

Paints a picture of a life filled with extreme unhappiness and suffering.

FAQs

How can I use "state of suffering" in a sentence?

You can use "state of suffering" to describe a condition characterized by pain, distress, or hardship. For example, "The patient was in a "state of suffering" due to their chronic illness."

What are some alternatives to "state of suffering"?

Alternatives include "condition of distress", "period of anguish", or "time of affliction", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "state of suffering" formal or informal?

"State of suffering" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it's more common in formal writing and discussions due to its descriptive and somewhat clinical nature.

What's the difference between "state of suffering" and "state of distress"?

While similar, "state of distress" generally implies a broader range of negative emotions and difficulties, while "state of suffering" specifically highlights pain and hardship. The choice depends on the specific context.