What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
torments
Example
The patient was tormented by the excruciating pain in his leg. [tormented: verb]
Example
The constant noise from the construction site tormented the residents of the neighborhood. [tormented: adjective]
anguish
Example
She felt anguish after the sudden death of her father. [anguish: noun]
Example
He anguished over the decision to quit his job. [anguished: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Anguish is more commonly used than torments in everyday language. Anguish is a versatile word that can be used to describe a wide range of emotional experiences, while torments is less common and often used in specific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between torments and anguish?
Both torments and anguish are formal words that are typically used in serious or emotional contexts. However, anguish may be considered more formal due to its association with deeper emotional experiences.
