Pain vs Torment

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 PainTorment
Meaningunpleasant feeling or discomfort in the bodyextreme pain or suffering
CEFR levelA2B1
Part of speechnounnoun
Usage notesUsed in both formal and informal contexts. Avoid using it lightly; can be serious when discussing medical issues.Use 'torment' to describe severe emotional or physical suffering. It's neutral, suitable for both written and spoken contexts.

Frequently asked questions: Pain vs Torment

What's the difference between "Pain" and "Torment"?

"Pain" means: unpleasant feeling or discomfort in the body "Torment" means: extreme pain or suffering

When should I use "Pain" and "Torment"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Pain" and "Torment" the same CEFR level?

"Pain" is at A2, "Torment" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.

Related comparisons