student asking question

Does the phrase "terminal illness" has the same meaning as "eternal suffering?"

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

No, "terminal illness" does not have the same meaning as "eternal suffering". A "terminal illness" refers to an illness that cannot be cured and which someone will die from. However "illness" is not synonymous with "suffering", and having a "terminal illness" does not necessarily mean that someone will be suffering forever. "Eternal suffering" also implies that someone will continue to suffer in this life, after they die, and for all of eternity. This this not the same thing as having a "terminal illness" which only lasts until someone dies.

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