What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
afflictions
Example
The patient suffered from various afflictions, including arthritis and depression. [afflictions: noun]
Example
The afflictions of poverty are numerous and can have lasting effects on individuals and communities. [afflictions: noun]
distress
Example
The news of her father's death caused her great distress. [distress: noun]
Example
The family was distressed by the sudden loss of their home in a fire. [distressed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Distress is more commonly used than afflictions in everyday language. Distress is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while afflictions is less common and tends to be used in more formal or medical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between afflictions and distress?
Afflictions is a more formal word that is often used in medical or technical contexts, while distress is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
