Word
distress
Meanings
a state of great anxiety, sorrow, or physical suffering
serious trouble or danger that needs urgent help
to cause someone to feel anxiety or suffering
Definition
Distress is a state of great anxiety, pain, or suffering.
Distress refers to a strong feeling of worry, sadness, or physical discomfort. It can describe someone’s emotional suffering after a difficult event or urgent trouble that needs help. It is also used for situations where a person, group, or system is under severe strain.
Examples
- I could hear the distress in my friend’s voice when she described what had happened.
- The images of the flood caused visible distress among the volunteers at the briefing.
- He tried to hide his distress, but his hands trembled as he answered the questions.
- The sudden silence after the announcement filled the room with distress and confusion.
- Her harsh comments continued to distress the team, even after the meeting ended.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse distress (strong suffering or anxiety) with stress (pressure or tension) and use them interchangeably.
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