What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
affliction
Example
The old man suffered from an affliction that caused him constant pain. [affliction: noun]
Example
Her affliction with anxiety made it difficult for her to leave the house. [affliction: noun]
misery
Example
The refugees lived in misery, with no access to basic necessities like food and water. [misery: noun]
Example
She felt a deep sense of misery after losing her job and her home. [misery: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Misery is more commonly used than affliction in everyday language. Misery is a more versatile word that can be used to describe a wide range of negative experiences, while affliction is more specific and clinical.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between affliction and misery?
Affliction is a more formal word than misery. It is often used in medical or technical contexts to describe specific conditions or problems, while misery is more commonly used in informal or everyday language to describe negative emotions or experiences.
