schmerzlich
Translation
painful, grievous, sorely
Examples
Sein Tod war ein schmerzlicher Verlust.
His death was a painful loss.
Er wird schmerzlich vermisst.
He is sorely missed.
Grammar Patterns
(attributive) a painful/grievous (...) a grievous loss
(adverbial) sorely, painfully He is sorely missed.
Similar Words
Synonyms: grievous, bitter; Antonyms: joyful, pleasant
Etymology
From 'Schmerz' (pain) + '-lich' (an adjective/adverb-forming suffix, similar to '-ly' or '-like').
Memory Tips
While 'schmerzhaft' is for physical pain, 'schmerzlich' often refers to emotional pain, a deep loss, or regret. It can also be an adverb meaning 'sorely'.