What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suffering
Example
The refugees are suffering from hunger and disease. [suffering: present participle]
Example
She has been through a lot of suffering in her life. [suffering: noun]
pain
Example
I have a lot of pain in my back. [pain: noun]
Example
The surgery caused a lot of pain. [pain: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pain is more commonly used than suffering in everyday language. Pain is a more specific term that covers a wide range of contexts, while suffering is less common and often used in more serious or dramatic situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between suffering and pain?
Both suffering and pain can be used in formal and informal contexts, but suffering may be considered more formal due to its broader and more serious connotations.
