Top 40 Slang For Suffering – Meaning & Usage

Suffering is a universal experience that we all go through at some point in our lives. Whether it’s heartbreak, stress, or just a bad day, we all have our own ways of describing and expressing our pain. In this listicle, we’ve compiled the top slang terms for suffering that are used by people all over the world. From “feeling blue” to “going through the motions,” we’ve got you covered. So grab a cup of tea, get cozy, and prepare to dive into the world of slang for suffering like never before.

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1. Agony

Agony refers to a state of intense suffering, whether it be physical or mental.

For example, a person experiencing extreme physical pain might say, “I’m in agony, please help me.”
In a discussion about emotional distress, someone might say, “The agony of losing a loved one is indescribable.”
A person going through a difficult time might express, “I’m in agony over this decision, I don’t know what to do.”

2. Misery

Misery refers to a feeling of extreme unhappiness or distress, often accompanied by feelings of hopelessness.

For instance, someone going through a difficult breakup might say, “I’m drowning in misery.”
In a conversation about a challenging situation, someone might express, “I’ve never experienced such misery before.”
A person feeling overwhelmed by life might say, “I can’t take this misery anymore, something needs to change.”

3. Torment

Torment refers to the experience of severe physical or mental suffering, often characterized by persistent anguish or pain.

For example, a person experiencing ongoing bullying might say, “I’m living in constant torment.”
In a discussion about past trauma, someone might share, “The torment I went through as a child still haunts me.”
A person struggling with a mental illness might express, “The torment in my mind is unbearable at times.”

4. Anguish

Anguish refers to a state of severe mental or emotional pain, often accompanied by feelings of distress, sorrow, or despair.

For instance, someone grieving the loss of a loved one might say, “I’m consumed by anguish.”
In a conversation about a heartbreaking event, someone might express, “The anguish I felt in that moment was overwhelming.”
A person going through a difficult time might share, “I wake up every day with a deep sense of anguish.”

5. Pain

Pain refers to both physical and emotional discomfort or suffering that is typically unpleasant and distressing.

For example, someone with a chronic illness might say, “I’m in constant pain.”
In a discussion about a difficult breakup, someone might express, “The pain of heartbreak is indescribable.”
A person going through a tough time might share, “I’m carrying so much pain inside me, it’s hard to bear.”

6. Heartache

Heartache refers to intense emotional pain or distress, typically caused by a loss or disappointment. It describes the deep sorrow or anguish one feels in their heart.

For example, someone who has recently gone through a breakup might say, “I’m still dealing with the heartache of losing them.”
A person discussing a tragic event might express, “My heart aches for the families affected by this tragedy.”
In a song about lost love, the lyrics might convey, “I can’t bear the heartache of being without you.”

7. Distress

Distress refers to extreme discomfort or suffering, both physically and emotionally. It describes a state of great anxiety, anguish, or pain.

For instance, someone experiencing financial difficulties might say, “I’m in distress over my mounting debts.”
A person in a high-stress situation might exclaim, “I’m in distress and need immediate help!”
In a story about a character facing adversity, the author might write, “She was filled with distress as she struggled to find a way out.”

8. Grief

Grief is a profound and intense sorrow or mourning, usually caused by the loss of a loved one. It encompasses a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, and despair.

For example, someone who has lost a family member might express, “I’m still in the depths of grief.”
A person discussing the grieving process might say, “Grief is a natural response to loss and takes time to heal.”
In a poem about loss, the poet might convey, “Grief has consumed my every thought and breath.”

9. Woe

Woe refers to deep distress or misery, often accompanied by a sense of despair or hopelessness. It describes a state of great unhappiness or sorrow.

For instance, someone going through a difficult time might exclaim, “Woe is me!”
A person discussing a tragic event might express, “The woe felt by the community was palpable.”
In a novel about a character’s struggles, the author might write, “She was overcome with woe as she faced one hardship after another.”

10. Despair

Despair refers to a state of complete loss of hope, often accompanied by feelings of sadness, frustration, or helplessness. It describes a deep sense of discouragement or pessimism.

For example, someone facing a seemingly insurmountable challenge might say, “I’m filled with despair; I don’t know how to overcome this.”
A person discussing mental health might explain, “Despair is a common symptom of depression.”
In a story about a character’s internal struggle, the author might write, “He sank into despair, convinced that there was no way out of his predicament.”

11. Melancholy

Melancholy refers to a deep and prolonged sadness or sorrow. It is a state of being low in spirits or feeling a sense of gloom.

For example, “She couldn’t shake off the melancholy that had settled over her since the breakup.”
A person experiencing melancholy might say, “I’m feeling a bit of melancholy today, I’m not sure why.”
When describing a sad scene in a movie, one might say, “The film had a touch of melancholy that left me feeling emotional.”

12. Sorrow

Sorrow refers to a deep feeling of sadness or grief, often caused by a loss or disappointment.

For instance, “She couldn’t hide her sorrow after receiving the news of her grandfather’s passing.”
A person expressing sorrow might say, “I’m filled with sorrow over the loss of my beloved pet.”
When describing a heartbreaking event, one might say, “The whole community mourned with sorrow over the tragic accident.”

13. Aggravation

Aggravation refers to a state of frustration or annoyance caused by a particular situation or person.

For example, “The constant noise from the construction site was a source of aggravation for the residents.”
A person experiencing aggravation might say, “I can’t handle this constant aggravation from my noisy neighbors.”
When describing a difficult task, one might say, “Dealing with the complicated paperwork was a major aggravation.”

14. Tribulation

Tribulation refers to a period of hardship or adversity, often involving suffering or challenges.

For instance, “She faced many tribulations throughout her life, but she never gave up.”
A person going through tribulation might say, “I’m in the midst of a financial tribulation and it’s causing a lot of stress.”
When describing a difficult journey, one might say, “The hiker endured numerous tribulations to reach the mountain’s summit.”

15. Affliction

Affliction refers to a condition or problem that causes suffering or distress.

For example, “His chronic illness was a constant affliction that impacted his daily life.”
A person dealing with an affliction might say, “I’m struggling with a mental affliction and it’s affecting my ability to function.”
When describing a widespread issue, one might say, “Poverty is an affliction that affects millions of people around the world.”

16. Struggle

Refers to facing obstacles or difficulties in life or a particular situation.

For example, “I’m going through a financial struggle right now.”
A person might say, “I’ve been struggling with my mental health lately.”
In a conversation about work, someone might mention, “I’m struggling to meet my deadlines.”

17. Hardship

Refers to experiencing tough or challenging circumstances or situations.

For instance, “She has faced many hardships in her life.”
A person might say, “The pandemic has brought financial hardships to many people.”
In a discussion about immigration, someone might mention, “Migrants often face hardships when seeking a better life.”

18. Discomfort

Refers to a feeling of physical or mental unease or distress.

For example, “I feel discomfort in my lower back after sitting for too long.”
A person might say, “I experienced discomfort during the flight due to turbulence.”
In a conversation about public speaking, someone might mention, “Many people feel discomfort when speaking in front of a large audience.”

19. Wretchedness

Refers to a state of extreme unhappiness or misery.

For instance, “He lived in wretchedness after losing his job.”
A person might say, “The war brought wretchedness to the affected communities.”
In a discussion about poverty, someone might mention, “The cycle of wretchedness is difficult to break without proper support.”

20. Desolation

Refers to a feeling of emptiness, loneliness, or sadness.

For example, “After the breakup, she felt a sense of desolation.”
A person might say, “The abandoned house had an aura of desolation.”
In a conversation about natural disasters, someone might mention, “The aftermath of the hurricane left a landscape of desolation.”

21. Rue

This word is used to describe feelings of regret or sorrow. It can also refer to a feeling of remorse or longing for something that has been lost or gone wrong.

For example, “He rues the day he made that decision.”
A person might say, “I still rue the missed opportunity.”
Another might express, “She is filled with rue over her past actions.”

22. Lament

To lament means to express grief or sorrow, often through mourning, wailing, or crying. It can also refer to expressing regret or disappointment over a loss or unfortunate event.

For instance, “The mourners lamented the loss of their loved one.”
A person might say, “I lament the state of the world today.”
Another might express, “She lamented the end of their relationship.”

23. Pain in the ass

This slang phrase is used to describe someone or something that is extremely annoying or troublesome. It is often used in a humorous or informal context.

For example, “My neighbor is such a pain in the ass.”
A person might say, “Dealing with this paperwork is a real pain in the ass.”
Another might complain, “This project is turning out to be a pain in the ass.”

24. Pain in the neck

Similar to “pain in the ass,” this slang phrase is used to describe someone or something that is annoying or troublesome. It is often used in a lighthearted or informal manner.

For instance, “My coworker is a real pain in the neck.”
A person might say, “Finding parking in this area is always a pain in the neck.”
Another might complain, “Dealing with this computer issue is becoming a real pain in the neck.”

25. Racked with pain

When someone is “racked with pain,” it means they are experiencing intense or severe pain. The phrase suggests that the pain is overwhelming and difficult to bear.

For example, “She was racked with pain after the accident.”
A person might say, “I couldn’t sleep last night because I was racked with pain.”
Another might describe, “His face contorted in agony as he was racked with pain.”

26. Hurt

Hurt refers to physical or emotional pain or discomfort. It can be used to describe a wide range of unpleasant sensations or experiences.

For example, “I hurt my ankle while playing soccer.”
Someone might say, “Her words really hurt my feelings.”
A person experiencing chronic pain might express, “I’m constantly in hurt.”

27. Suffering succotash

Suffering succotash is an exclamation used to express surprise, frustration, or disbelief. It is a playful and lighthearted way to convey strong emotions.

For instance, “Suffering succotash! I can’t believe I forgot my keys again.”
A person might exclaim, “Suffering succotash, that movie was terrible!”
Someone expressing frustration might say, “Suffering succotash, why won’t this computer work?”

28. Miserableness

Miserableness refers to a state of extreme unhappiness or discomfort. It describes a feeling of being miserable or in a state of misery.

For example, “She couldn’t shake off the miserableness of her recent breakup.”
A person might express, “The miserableness of this rainy day is getting to me.”
Someone going through a difficult time might say, “I’m tired of feeling this miserableness.”

29. Torture

Torture refers to the infliction of extreme physical or mental pain on someone. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation or experience that is extremely unpleasant or difficult.

For instance, “The prisoners were subjected to brutal torture.”
A person might say, “Running a marathon felt like torture.”
Someone going through a challenging time might express, “This job is torture.”

30. Purgatory

Purgatory refers to a state of suffering, punishment, or uncertainty. It can be used metaphorically to describe a situation or experience that feels endless or stuck.

For example, “Waiting for the test results felt like purgatory.”
A person might say, “Being stuck in traffic is purgatory.”
Someone going through a difficult period in their life might express, “I feel like I’m in purgatory.”

31. Misfortune

Misfortune refers to a series of unfortunate events or bad luck that someone experiences.

For example, “She seemed to have a string of misfortunes, from losing her job to getting into a car accident.”
In a discussion about someone’s life struggles, one might say, “He has faced a lot of misfortunes, but he always manages to bounce back.”
A person might comment, “I hope you have better luck in the future and avoid any more misfortunes.”

32. Calamity

Calamity refers to a disastrous event or situation that causes great distress or destruction.

For instance, “The earthquake was a calamity that left the city in ruins.”
In a conversation about natural disasters, someone might say, “The hurricane was a calamity that affected many lives.”
A person might express concern, “I hope we can prevent any future calamities and protect people from harm.”

33. Afflict

Afflict means to cause physical or mental suffering or distress to someone.

For example, “The disease afflicts thousands of people worldwide.”
In a discussion about mental health, someone might say, “Depression can afflict anyone, regardless of their background.”
A person might express empathy, “I’m sorry to hear that you’re afflicted with such a painful condition.”

34. Plight

Plight refers to a difficult or unfortunate situation that someone is experiencing.

For instance, “The refugees are in a plight, with limited access to food and shelter.”
In a conversation about social issues, someone might say, “Many people are unaware of the plight faced by the homeless.”
A person might express concern, “We need to address the plight of those living in poverty and find solutions to help them.”

35. Strain

Strain refers to pressure or tension that arises from demanding circumstances or situations.

For example, “The constant work deadlines put a strain on her mental health.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “Financial difficulties can put a strain on a marriage.”
A person might express their feelings, “I’m feeling the strain of juggling multiple responsibilities and tasks.”

36. Distraught

Distraught refers to a state of extreme emotional distress or agitation. It implies a deep sense of sadness, grief, or confusion.

For example, “She was distraught after receiving the news of her father’s passing.”
A person might say, “I was absolutely distraught when I failed my final exam.”
In a dramatic movie scene, a character might be portrayed as distraught, crying and shaking uncontrollably.

37. Wretched

Wretched describes a state of being extremely unhappy, miserable, or unfortunate. It conveys a sense of deep suffering or distress.

For instance, “She lived a wretched life, constantly struggling to make ends meet.”
A person might say, “I feel wretched after the breakup. I can’t stop thinking about it.”
In literature, a character might be described as wretched, living in squalor and despair.

38. Angst

Angst refers to a feeling of deep anxiety, dread, or unease. It is often associated with existential or philosophical concerns.

For example, “He was filled with angst about the meaning of life.”
A person might say, “I have so much angst about the future. I don’t know what I want to do.”
In a song lyric, the artist might express their angst, singing about their inner turmoil and confusion.

39. Adversity

Adversity refers to difficulties, challenges, or hardships that one faces in life. It implies a state of struggle or adversity.

For instance, “She faced great adversity growing up in a war-torn country.”
A person might say, “I’ve overcome many adversities in my life and become stronger because of them.”
In a motivational speech, the speaker might talk about overcoming adversity and achieving success.

40. Tragedy

Tragedy refers to a disastrous or fatal event that causes great suffering, sorrow, or loss. It often involves a dramatic or catastrophic event.

For example, “The plane crash was a tragedy that claimed the lives of all onboard.”
A person might say, “The loss of a loved one is a tragedy that leaves a lasting impact.”
In literature or theater, a tragedy might be depicted, showcasing the downfall of a tragic hero and the resulting suffering.