Definition

Relating to or causing harm or suffering to someone or something.

Example

The inflictive nature of the punishment made it difficult for the students to learn from their mistakes.

Conversation

I read an article about how some movies can be really inflictive on viewers' emotions.

Oh really? That sounds intense!

Yeah, it talked about how certain scenes can inflictive pain or joy in a powerful way.

I guess that's what makes a movie unforgettable!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inflictive is formed from "in-" (meaning into or upon) and "fligere" (meaning to strike). The word describes the act of striking or imposing something upon someone, often in a harmful way.

Memory Tip

Think of 'striking' ('fligere') something 'upon' ('in-') someone, which helps you remember that 'inflictive' means to impose harm.

Visually Confused Words