Agonising Meaning in English
word · lemma: agonise
Definition
Describes something that causes intense pain or emotional suffering. It can also mean something that makes you feel very anxious or worried for a period of time.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly used in British English (US spelling: 'agonizing'). Commonly used for physical pain ('an agonising injury') or emotional distress ('an agonising decision'). Often used with 'wait' as in 'an agonising wait'. Strongly expressive but formal; not used casually for minor discomfort.
Example Sentences
The child felt agonising pain after falling.
basic
Waiting for the exam results was agonising.
basic
She had to make an agonising decision.
basic
It was an agonising wait as the ambulance took forever to arrive.
natural
He described the breakup as an agonising experience that lasted for months.
natural
That was an agonising choice—no matter what I picked, someone would be hurt.
natural