agony - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
agony Word Meanings
- extreme pain or suffering
- intense mental or emotional distress
- a struggle or contest
agony Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
agony Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈæɡəni/
US
/ˈæɡəni/
agony Word Etymology
agony = agon + -y, from Greek 'agon' meaning 'contest or struggle'. Historical origin: Greek → Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a fierce gladiatorial battle where one fighter is in extreme pain, symbolizing intense struggle.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Agony means extreme pain or suffering, whether physical, like a cramping injury, or emotional, such as overwhelming distress. It can also refer to a protracted struggle or contest, especially when the effort feels endless. The word comes from agon, a Greek root meaning contest or struggle, which helps remember the sense of fighting through hardship. A vivid image: a gladiator in the arena, wracked by pain, yet pushing forward. Learners should note that agony is stronger than ordinary pain and often conveys intensity that makes daily life hard to endure.
Usage Reminders
- Use agony for extreme pain or distress, not mild discomfort.
- Common collocations: in agony, feel agony, agony of childbirth, agonize (verb) and agonizing (adj).
- Don’t replace agony with pain in all contexts.
- Note the British term agony aunt for an advice columnist.
- Agony can also describe a prolonged struggle or contest, not just a momentary sensation.
Common Misconceptions
- Agony only refers to physical pain.
- It always lasts forever or a very long time.
- You can replace agony with pain in all contexts without changing meaning.
- Agony and anguish are the exact same thing.
- It is used for minor discomfort in everyday speech.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Remember agon comes from Greek meaning contest or struggle.
- Distinguish agony from pain by intensity; agony is extreme.
- Use agonizing (adj) for something nearly unbearable to endure.
- Learn common collocations: in agony, feel agony, agony of childbirth.
- Know verb form: agonize means to cause or suffer agony.
- Be mindful of context—emotional agony is common as well as physical.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'agony'?
A.Joy
B.Intense pain
C.Sadness
D.Excitement
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'agony' used correctly?
A.She felt extreme happiness after winning the game.
B.The children played in the park with joy.
C.He endured the agony of a severe migraine.
D.The concert filled her with excitement.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'agony'?
A.Ecstasy
B.Suffering
C.Misery
D.Comfort
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context might someone experience 'agony'?
A.Breaking a bone
B.Petting a puppy
C.Winning a lottery
D.Eating ice cream
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a situation where 'agony' would describe someone's feelings?
A.Going for a walk
B.Waiting for exam results
C.Cooking a meal
D.Listening to music
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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