Synonyms for

Torturing

Verb / ˈtɔ:rtʃɜ:ɪŋ / Another word for torturing — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The act of inflicting severe pain on someone as a form of punishment or to force them to do or say something.

Synonyms & similar words

rack excruciate harrowing agonizing agonising torture excruciating torturous torment torturesome tormenting abusing harming hurting injuring maiming mutilating punishing whipping beating flogging lashing thrashing wounding afflicting agonizing assaulting battering mauling piercing

Synonyms by register

Formal

tormenting afflicting harassing persecuting

Informal

bugging pestering hassling bothering

Literary

racking cruciating excruciating

Antonyms

comforting soothing pleasing delighting entertaining gratifying

Common collocations

  • torturing someone
  • torturing the truth
  • torturing oneself
  • torturing a language
  • torturing a confession
  • torturing the data
  • torturing the evidence

Word family

noun torture
verb torture
adjective torturous

Usage note

The word 'torturing' often implies severe physical or psychological pain. When used figuratively, such as 'torturing the truth,' it suggests distortion or manipulation.

Example sentences

  1. The cat was torturing the mouse.
  2. The bully was torturing the younger students.
  3. The criminal was torturing his victim for information.
  4. The soldier was torturing the enemy to gain an advantage.
  5. The coach was torturing his team to push them to their limits.

Quotes

  • Torturing an innocent person is an oxymoron. - Saul Alinsky
  • Torturing is a crime under international law. And that includes by the United States. - Al Gore
  • The only way to deal with intimidation is to confront it. If you shy away from it, you're just allowing it to continue, and you will suffer a torturing existence. - Caroline Lucas

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