Synonyms for

Ordeal

Verb / ɔ:ˈrdi:l / Another word for ordeal — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a difficult or painful experience, especially one that lasts for a long time

Synonyms & similar words

trialbyordeal trial tribulation test hardship difficulty challenge adversity suffering misery torment affliction distress trauma pain calvary travail burden problem struggle

Synonyms by register

Formal

tribulation adversity hardship affliction

Informal

tough time bad experience rough patch nightmare

Literary

trial testing crucible

Antonyms

pleasure joy comfort ease delight bliss success

Common collocations

  • difficult ordeal
  • terrible ordeal
  • traumatic ordeal
  • ordeal by fire
  • undergo an ordeal
  • survive an ordeal
  • face an ordeal

Word family

noun ordeal
verb ordeal
adjective ordealic

Usage note

An ordeal refers to a difficult or painful experience. It often implies a test of one's endurance or character. It is typically used for significant challenges rather than minor inconveniences.

Example sentences

  1. The surgery was an ordeal for the patient.
  2. Going through a divorce can be an emotional ordeal.
  3. The hiker's ordeal lasted for three days without food or water.
  4. Getting lost in a foreign city was an ordeal for the tourist.
  5. The survivors of the shipwreck retold their ordeal to the rescue team.

Quotes

  • The ordeal can be a path to self-discovery and empowerment. - Laura Ramirez
  • Adversity is sometimes hard upon a man; but for one man who can stand prosperity, there are a hundred that will stand adversity. - Elvis Presley
  • The ordeal of virtue is to resist all temptation to evil. - Thomas Aquinas

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