What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
torments
Example
The patient was in torments due to the burns on his body. [torments: noun]
Example
She tormented herself with thoughts of what could have been. [tormented: verb]
agony
Example
He cried out in agony as the knife pierced his skin. [agony: noun]
Example
She was in agony after hearing the news of her father's death. [agony: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Agony is more commonly used than torments in everyday language. Agony is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while torments is less common and more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between torments and agony?
Torments is typically associated with a more formal tone, while agony is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
