debilitating

word · lemma: debilitate

Definition

Something that is debilitating makes you very weak or unable to function normally, often due to illness, pain, or emotional stress.

Usage & Nuances

Most common in medical, psychological, or formal contexts. Used to describe illnesses, conditions, or experiences that significantly reduce strength or function. Pairs with nouns like 'pain', 'disease', 'fatigue', or 'anxiety'. Rarely used in casual conversation.

Example Sentences

Chronic fatigue can be debilitating for many people.

basic

The disease is debilitating and hard to treat.

basic

He lives with a debilitating back injury.

basic

Anxiety at that level can become truly debilitating.

natural

She described the debilitating pain she felt after the accident.

natural

Some people find winter depression to be absolutely debilitating.

natural