English vocabulary · B2
Affliction
/əˈflɪkʃən/ · n.
It means a serious condition that causes pain or suffering over time. It is not a small problem — it is something that weighs on a person.
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Example sentences
- Poverty is an affliction that touches millions of lives.
- He bore his affliction quietly, never asking for help.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- af — to (from Latin)
- flict — strike (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- HARDSHIP — a hard life condition (Long & Difficult)
- AILMENT — a health problem (Physical & Ongoing)
- BURDEN — something hard to bear (Heavy to Carry)
Words with the same root
flict — strike
- conflict — a serious fight or disagreement
- inflict — to cause something painful on someone
Lesson notes
Affliction. It means a serious condition that causes pain or suffering over time. It is not a small problem — it is something that weighs on a person.
Similar words are hardship, ailment, and burden. Use affliction when a condition causes long-term pain or suffering.
Poverty is an affliction that touches millions of lives. He bore his affliction quietly, never asking for help.
From Latin. af- means to. flict- means strike. Struck again and again: that is affliction.