verb

inflict

to inflict, to impose, to cause

The storm inflicted severe damage on the town.

The storm inflicted severe damage on the town.

Don't inflict your opinions on others.

Don't inflict your opinions on others.

((sth.)) ((on/upon sb./sth.)) to cause (sth. unpleasant) to be suffered by (sb./sth.) The hurricane inflicted massive damage on the city.

Synonyms: impose, cause, wreak; Antonyms: spare, relieve

From Latin 'infligere' (to strike against), from 'in-' (on, against) + 'fligere' (to strike).

Think of 'inflicting' a 'conflict' on someone. It's always used for something negative.

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