What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
agony
Example
The athlete was in agony after injuring his ankle. [agony: noun]
Example
She watched in agony as her house burned down. [agony: noun]
suffering
Example
The patient was suffering from a chronic illness. [suffering: verb]
Example
The refugees had endured years of suffering before finding safety. [suffering: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Suffering is more commonly used than agony in everyday language. Suffering is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while agony is more specific and dramatic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between agony and suffering?
Both agony and suffering can be used in formal and informal contexts, but agony may be perceived as more dramatic and emotional, while suffering is more neutral and objective.
