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Afflict Meaning in English

word

əˈfɫɪkt
uh-FLIKT
ɐflˈɪkt
uh-FLIKT

Definition

To cause pain, suffering, or distress to someone or something, especially from illness or trouble.

Usage & Nuances

'Afflict' is formal and often describes serious hardships, diseases, or suffering ('afflicted by poverty/cancer'). The object is usually a person or group. Rare in everyday speech, more common in writing or reports. Not used for minor problems.

Example Sentences

Many families were afflicted by the economic crisis last year.

natural

Doctors are still searching for ways to treat the diseases that afflict the elderly.

natural

It’s heartbreaking to see so many children afflicted by war.

natural

The disease afflicted many people in the village.

basic

Hunger afflicts millions of children worldwide.

basic

She was afflicted by a serious allergy.

basic