What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
anguish
Example
She was filled with anguish when she heard the news of her father's death. [anguish: noun]
Example
The thought of losing her job caused him great anguish. [anguish: noun]
pain
Example
He felt a sharp pain in his leg after he fell. [pain: noun]
Example
The pain of losing her husband was too much for her to bear. [pain: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pain is more commonly used than anguish in everyday language. Pain is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while anguish is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between anguish and pain?
Both anguish and pain can be used in formal and informal contexts, but anguish is often associated with a more formal tone due to its intensity and severity.
