Bedeviling

The act of bedeviling describes something that causes persistent trouble, torment, or frustration. It can refer to a situation, a person, or an object that repeatedly thwarts progress, creates difficulties, or induces feelings of exasperation. It implies a state of being persistently harassed or plagued by something undesirable, leading to challenges, difficulties, and even moral or emotional turmoil. The thing bedeviling can range from abstract concepts such as self-doubt to concrete problems like malfunctioning equipment, highlighting its versatility in describing sources of consistent annoyance.

Bedeviling meaning with examples

• The constant technical glitches with the software were bedeviling the team, slowing down their progress on the crucial project. They felt consistently thwarted, unable to deliver the results expected due to these persistent failures and felt a lot of frustration, often leaving work late.
• The complexities of the legal regulations were bedeviling the small business owners, leading to compliance issues and financial anxieties. These struggles included complicated paperwork and high cost legal counsel, they became increasingly worried about the consequences.
• His persistent procrastination was bedeviling his academic performance; he knew he needed to study but struggled to take the first step, causing his grades to constantly fall. His constant avoidance and delayed studies created a vicious cycle of stress and disappointment.
• The unpredictable weather conditions were bedeviling the construction project, causing delays and increased costs. Construction crews were frequently set back by storms and mudslides, forcing work to be constantly put on hold.