Definition of “Suffer”
The verb suffer refers to experiencing pain, distress, hardship, or loss. It can also mean enduring something unpleasant or allowing a condition to persist.
Synonyms of “Suffer”
Strongest Matches (Most Closely Related Words)
- Endure
- Undergo
- Bear
- Tolerate
- Experience
- Sustain
- Withstand
Strong Matches
- Persevere
- Persist
- Brave
- Abide
- Submit
- Tarry
- Resist
Weak Matches
- Agonize
- Struggle
- Worry
- Grieve
- Lament
- Complain
- Face
Example Sentences Using “Suffer”
- Physical Pain: She suffered from severe migraines for years.
- Emotional Distress: After the loss of his pet, he suffered greatly.
- Financial Hardship: The business suffered due to the economic downturn.
- Enduring a Situation: He suffered in silence, unwilling to voice his concerns.
- Allowing a Condition: The teacher suffered no disrespect in her classroom.
Contextual Usage of “Suffer”
Medical Context
- “Many patients suffer from chronic illnesses requiring lifelong treatment.”
Legal Context
- “The plaintiff suffered damages due to the negligence of the defendant.”
Psychological Context
- “Children may suffer from anxiety disorders due to prolonged stress.”
Social & Economic Context
- “Low-income families often suffer the consequences of economic inequality.”
Philosophical or Religious Context
- “Many religions teach that to suffer is to grow spiritually.”
Related Words and Phrases
- Suffering (noun): The suffering of the victims was evident.
- Sufferer (noun): She was a long-time sufferer of asthma.
- Sufferable (adjective): The heat was barely sufferable.
- Insufferable (adjective): His arrogance made him insufferable.
- Suffrage (noun, unrelated to pain but derived from the same root): The women’s suffrage movement fought for voting rights.
Additional Relevant Information
- Origin: The word “suffer” derives from Latin sufferre, meaning “to bear or endure.”
- Common Phrases:
- “Suffer in silence”
- “Suffer the consequences”
- “Suffer a setback”
- “Suffer defeat”
Disclaimer
This content is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The meanings, synonyms, and examples provided are based on general usage and may vary depending on context. Always consult a dictionary or linguistic expert for precise definitions and applications.
