Afflicts

To afflict means to cause pain or suffering to someone or something. It denotes the infliction of distress, hardship, or misfortune. The impact can be physical, emotional, or mental, and it often disrupts the normal functioning or well-being of the subject. Affliction can be a disease, a negative feeling or a circumstance, and it can range in severity from a minor inconvenience to a crippling experience. The term implies a lasting negative effect which creates a burden, causing a difficult or challenging situation.

Afflicts meaning with examples

• The severe economic downturn afflicted many families, leading to job losses and financial instability. This created considerable stress within communities, causing widespread anxiety about the future and the inability to provide basics.
• A chronic illness afflicted her, leading to a daily struggle with pain and fatigue. This physical burden limited her ability to participate in many activities she once enjoyed, impacting her social life.
• The news of the betrayal afflicted him, causing deep emotional turmoil and distrust. His sense of security and faith in others was shattered, leading to a period of profound sadness and isolation from the people he loved.
• Frequent power outages afflicted the town, disrupting daily life and businesses. The lack of electricity caused widespread inconvenience, hampered productivity, and made simple tasks difficult.
• Feelings of self-doubt and insecurity often afflicted her, preventing her from pursuing her goals. This emotional barrier held her back from taking risks and believing in her own capabilities, affecting her self-esteem.