The phrase "be at pains" means to make a great effort to do something. Despite the simple meaning, the spelling of the phrase can be tricky. The IPA phonetic transcription for "be at pains" would be /bi æt peɪnz/. The word "pains" is pronounced with a long "a" sound followed by a "z" sound. The silent "t" in "at" can also be confusing for English language learners. Therefore, it is important to practice the proper pronunciation of this phrase to avoid any misunderstandings.
To be at pains means to make a special effort or exert oneself in order to accomplish something or to emphasize a point. This phrase is often used when someone goes to great lengths or takes extra care to do something. It suggests that the person is willing to put in additional effort, time, or thought in order to achieve a desired result.
When someone is described as being at pains, it implies that they are being meticulous, careful, and attentive. They may take extra steps to ensure accuracy, clarify misunderstandings, or demonstrate their commitment. This phrase conveys the idea that the person is attentive to details and takes pride in doing things correctly.
The expression "be at pains" originated from the archaic use of "pain" as an old English term meaning effort or exertion. Over time, it evolved to mean making an intentional and deliberate effort towards a specific goal or purpose.
For example, a teacher may be at pains to explain a complex concept to their students, using various examples and techniques so that the information is clear and understandable. Similarly, a presenter may be at pains to emphasize the importance of their topic and engage the audience by incorporating interactive elements.
Overall, the phrase "be at pains" suggests that someone is willing to go above and beyond what is expected in order to achieve a desired outcome or make a point effectively.