Synonyms for

Hurt

Verb / hɜ:t / Another word for hurt — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To cause pain or injury to someone or something.

Synonyms & similar words

trauma bruise injure smart detriment bewell ache scathe spite wound anguish wounded suffering suffer pain injury distress offend damage harm weakened injure damage harm wound afflict affect distress pain suffer bruise crush humble offend sting traumatize upset grieve agonize torment torture

Synonyms by register

Formal

injure damage harm afflict

Informal

ouch bug annoy bother

Literary

wound ache pain

Antonyms

heal help aid comfort soothe benefit mend

Common collocations

  • hurt feelings
  • hurt pride
  • hurt someone
  • deeply hurt
  • physically hurt
  • badly hurt
  • hurt badly
  • hurt the cause

Word family

noun hurt
verb hurt
adjective hurt

Usage note

Can refer to physical pain or emotional distress. 'Hurt' as an adjective is often used in the past participle form, e.g., 'a hurt child'.

Example sentences

  1. The boy hurt himself while riding his bike.
  2. The teacher's words hurt the student's feelings.
  3. The storm hurt the crops.
  4. The car accident hurt the driver.
  5. The athlete hurt her ankle during the game.

Quotes

  • The worst kind of hurt is betrayal, because it means someone was willing to hurt you just to make themselves feel better.
  • When someone truly cares about you, they make an effort, not an excuse.
  • The only thing harder than letting go is moving on.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words