The spelling of the word "agonise" can be confusing due to the different variations of its pronunciation. The IPA phonetic transcription for "agonise" is /ˈæɡənaɪz/. It is important to note that the "g" is pronounced like "j" and the final "s" is omitted in British English. In American English, the final "s" is pronounced. Additionally, the suffix "-ize" is often spelled "-ise" in British English, making the spelling of "agonise" different from its American counterpart, "agonize".
Agonise, also spelled "agonize," is a verb that is used to describe the intense mental or emotional suffering one experiences when facing a difficult decision, problem, or situation. It signifies the act of undergoing extreme mental anguish, distress, or torment caused by inner conflict, doubt, or anxiety.
When someone agonises, they find themselves going through a deeply agonizing and tormenting thought process. This often involves prolonged consideration, rumination, or contemplation of various alternatives, outcomes, or consequences. It can also involve struggling with conflicting emotions, doubts, or fears, leading to a state of inner turmoil or psychological torture.
Agonising may manifest as overthinking, feeling overwhelmed, or being consumed by inner tension. It commonly occurs when there is an absence of a clear or straightforward solution, leaving the individual perplexed or trapped in a mental deadlock.
The term can be associated with feelings of frustration, despair, or helplessness and is often accompanied by visible physical signs such as restlessness, pacing, hand-wringing, or facial expressions of distress.
Furthermore, agonising may also be used to describe physical suffering in certain contexts, such as enduring agonising pain or undergoing a grueling physical hardship.
Overall, agonise refers to the deep mental, emotional, or physical suffering experienced when confronted with a difficult, uncertain, or challenging situation, often involving inner conflicts or dilemmas.
To suffer extreme pain or anguish; to distress exceedingly.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "agonise" is derived from the verb "agonize", which ultimately comes from the Greek word "agonizesthai". In Greek, "agonizesthai" means "to struggle" or "to contend", and it is related to the noun "agon", which means "contest" or "competition". Over time, "agonize" and its variants, including "agonise" with the British English spelling, have carried the meaning of experiencing extreme mental or emotional anguish or undergoing a painful struggle.