torment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
torment Word Meanings
- to cause severe physical or mental suffering
- extreme pain or anguish
- a source of great pain or distress
torment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
torment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/tɔːˈmɛnt/
US
/tɔrˈmɛnt/
torment Word Etymology
The word 'torment' comes from the Latin 'tormentum' (to twist) + 'tormentare' (to torture). This origin evokes a vivid image of being twisted in pain, like being caught in a painful grip. The extension of 'torment' to mean emotional suffering connects to the idea of mental anguish twisting one's mind.
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
Torment is a versatile word in English, used both as a verb and a noun to describe intense suffering. As a verb, to torment means to cause someone to suffer physically or mentally, often through persistent cruelty or pressure. As a noun, torment refers to the feeling of severe distress itself or something that causes it, such as a memory or difficult situation. In everyday speech we talk about being tormented by guilt, anxiety, or unanswered questions, and we sometimes say a person is tormented by their past. The tone ranges from literary to formal, and it is stronger than ordinary worry but not necessarily synonymous with torture.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use as a transitive verb: torment someone. 2) Use as a noun: a torment or the torments of something. 3) Distinguish from torture (stronger, more systemic). 4) Pair with by/with: tormented by guilt, tormented by memories. 5) Use metaphorically: torment of doubts or questions. 6) Watch for past participles: tormented, tormenting.
Common Misconceptions
- Torment equals torture in all contexts; it does not—torture is usually more extreme and deliberate.
- It only refers to physical pain; it also covers mental or emotional distress.
- Someone can be tormented by memories, not just by people.
- Torment is not a casual dislike or annoyance; it implies deep, enduring distress.
- The noun and verb forms require different prepositions in certain phrases (torment by/with).
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn it as both noun and verb first.
- Pair with by/with to show what causes the torment.
- Contrast with torture to grasp intensity.
- Use torment in metaphorical phrases (torment of memories).
- Practice phrasal collocations: torment oneself, tormented by.
- Read literary sentences to hear the formal tone.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which definition best matches the word torment?
A.An official written agreement
B.A sudden happy surprise
C.A state of great physical or mental suffering
D.A short, light nap
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses the word torment correctly?
A.After the accident, the memory continued to torment her for years.
B.The weather threatened to torment the meeting tomorrow.
C.He decided to torment the cake before baking it.
D.She bought a new coat to torment the cold winter.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to torment?
A.quiet
B.joy
C.torture
D.celebrate
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of torment?
A.punish
B.comfort
C.injure
D.agony
Step 5: Mastery
Which real-life scenario best fits when you would appropriately describe something as a torment?
A.Staying up all night baking cookies for a school fair.
B.Finding a parking spot right in front of your workplace.
C.Living with a chronic, unrelenting pain that makes daily tasks unbearable.
D.Finishing a short puzzle in under five minutes.
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