torturing

word · lemma: torture

/ˈtɔɹtʃɝɪŋ/
TOR-chur-ing
/tˈɔːtʃəɹɪŋ/
TAW-chuh-ring

Definition

Causing someone great physical or mental pain, often on purpose. "Torturing" can also be used about situations that are very unpleasant or emotionally hard.

Usage & Nuances

Usually used in serious or dramatic contexts. Can describe physical acts (illegal, violent), but also emotional suffering (e.g., "torturing myself with worry"). Usually continuous form when describing an ongoing action.

Example Sentences

The villain was torturing the hero in the movie.

basic

He kept torturing his little brother with scary stories.

basic

Why are you torturing yourself over that mistake?

basic

The long wait for news was torturing her.

natural

He keeps torturing himself with questions about what might have been.

natural

Stop torturing me and just tell me the secret!

natural