agonize
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈæɡəˌnaɪz/
KK: /ˈæɡəˌnaɪz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To experience intense physical or emotional pain, often involving a lot of effort or struggle.
Example
She began to agonize over her decision to move away.
Tense Forms
Past: agonized
Past Participle: agonized
Conversation
I really agonize over my decisions sometimes.
I get that! Making choices can be so tough.
Yeah, I just wish I could stop myself from overthinking and agonize less.
Maybe try writing things down? It might help clear your mind.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
struggle
wrestle
suffer
Antonyms
relax
ease
calm
transitive verb
Definition
To make someone feel very intense pain or emotional suffering.
Example
The thought of failing the exam began to agonize her.
Tense Forms
Past: agonized
Past Participle: agonized
Conversation
I can't believe how much this project is making me agonize over the details.
I know what you mean; sometimes it feels never-ending.
It's like every little mistake can agonize me for hours.
Root Explanation
Agonize is formed from "agon" (from Greek "agōn", meaning contest or struggle) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to become). The word describes the act of making oneself undergo a struggle or contest, often in a mental or emotional sense.
Memory Tip
Think of 'agon' as a struggle or contest, which helps you remember that to 'agonize' means to undergo a struggle or intense emotional pain.
Visually Confused Words
agnize
unagonize
mangonize
jargonize
dragonize
coagonize
adonize
antagonize