affliction
Translation
something that causes pain or suffering, distress
Examples
Poverty is a great affliction.
Poverty is a great affliction.
Arthritis is a painful affliction.
Arthritis is a painful affliction.
Grammar Patterns
an affliction of ((sth.)) a problem or illness affecting (sth.) He suffers from an affliction of the lungs.
a painful affliction a painful illness or problem Arthritis is a painful affliction.
Similar Words
Synonyms: suffering, distress, hardship, malady; Antonyms: comfort, relief, blessing
Etymology
From the verb 'afflict', which comes from Latin 'affligere' (to strike down). The '-ion' suffix denotes a state or condition.
Memory Tips
Think of the 'condition' (-ion) of being 'afflicted'.