Agonize

To agonize means to undergo extreme mental, emotional, or physical suffering; to struggle intensely with a difficult decision or situation, often accompanied by distress, worry, and self-doubt. It involves dwelling on a problem, exploring all possible outcomes, and experiencing a significant degree of anguish or torment. The process can be prolonged and exhausting, leaving an individual feeling depleted and overwhelmed. It can also imply a lengthy, difficult, or elaborate process of construction or planning.

Agonize meaning with examples

• She agonized for weeks over whether to accept the job offer, weighing the pros and cons and experiencing a great deal of stress. The decision felt incredibly difficult, and she worried constantly about making the wrong choice, leading to sleepless nights and anxiety.
• The chef agonized over the perfect recipe for his signature dish, experimenting with countless ingredients and techniques. He aimed for perfection, spending hours refining the flavor profile until it was just right, which led to a heightened degree of self-criticism.
• The family agonized over the decision of whether or not to move their elderly parent into a care facility, considering their well-being and financial implications. Every member felt the emotional weight of this important decision and how their decision would affect their loved one.
• He agonized in the examination room as the doctor delivered the test results, unable to keep from thinking of all the bad possible outcomes to his health. The fear and uncertainty overwhelmed him as he considered the future, causing significant mental turmoil.