suffer

[ˈsʌfər]

suffer Definition

  • 1experience or be subjected to something bad or unpleasant
  • 2become worse in quality
  • 3allow (someone) to do something without interference even though one does not approve

Using suffer: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "suffer" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She suffered a heart attack.

  • Example

    The company's profits have suffered in recent years.

  • Example

    I cannot suffer fools gladly.

  • Example

    He suffered from a lack of confidence.

  • Example

    The team suffered a defeat in the final.

suffer Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for suffer

Phrases with suffer

  • experience the unpleasant effects of something

    Example

    She suffers from arthritis.

  • experience difficulties without complaining or seeking help

    Example

    He was suffering in silence, too proud to ask for help.

  • suffer the consequences

    accept the unpleasant results or effects of one's actions

    Example

    If you break the law, you must be prepared to suffer the consequences.

Origins of suffer

from Old French 'sofrir', based on Latin 'sub-' meaning 'below' and 'ferre' meaning 'to bear'

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Summary: suffer in Brief

The verb 'suffer' [ˈsʌfər] means to experience or undergo something unpleasant or bad. It can also mean to become worse in quality or to allow someone to do something without interference. Examples include 'She suffered a heart attack,' and 'I cannot suffer fools gladly.' Phrases include 'suffer from,' 'suffer in silence,' and 'suffer the consequences.'

How do native speakers use this expression?