What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
affliction
Example
Her affliction with arthritis made it difficult for her to move around. [affliction: noun]
Example
The family was struggling to cope with the affliction of their son's mental illness. [affliction: noun]
pain
Example
He winced in pain as the doctor examined his injured leg. [pain: noun]
Example
She was experiencing sharp pains in her stomach due to food poisoning. [pains: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pain is a more commonly used word than affliction in everyday language. Pain is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while affliction is less common and tends to be used in more formal or medical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between affliction and pain?
Affliction is a more formal and technical term than pain. It is often used in medical or legal contexts, while pain can be used in both formal and informal settings.
