FluencyCraft

pains

"Pains" is a fascinating word because it works in more than one way. As the plural of "pain", it can refer to physical or emotional suffering. But it also has a completely separate meaning related to effort and care — and that one surprises many learners! Here are the most common and useful senses.

1nounphysical hurts

This is the most straightforward use. When your body hurts in more than one place, or you have repeated or ongoing physical discomfort, you can talk about 'pains'. Think of it as the plural of a single 'pain' — multiple sensations of hurting.

everyday language, medicine · Modern, widely used

She woke up with pains in her back and shoulders after moving the furniture.

The doctor asked him to describe where he felt the pains.

Growing pains in the legs are common in children.

2nounfigurativeemotional suffering

Just like physical hurt, 'pains' can describe deep emotional distress — sadness, grief, or heartache. When someone goes through a very difficult experience, you might say they went through great pains emotionally.

everyday language, literature · Modern, widely used · figurative

The pains of losing a close friend never fully go away.

He tried to hide the pains of his difficult childhood.

Her writing captures the pains of loneliness beautifully.

3nounfigurativecareful effort

This is the sense that surprises people most! When someone takes 'pains' to do something, it means they put in a lot of careful effort and attention. It has nothing to do with hurting — it is about working hard and being thorough. You will often see the phrase 'take pains' or 'take great pains'.

everyday language, formal writing · Modern, widely used — slightly formal · figurative

She took great pains to make sure every detail of the presentation was perfect.

He took pains to explain the instructions clearly so no one would be confused.

The chef takes pains to source only the freshest ingredients.

4verbfigurativeto cause sadness or discomfort

Yes, 'pains' can also be a verb! When something 'pains' you, it causes you emotional hurt or discomfort. It is a more formal or literary way of saying something upsets or troubles you. You will often see it in the structure 'it pains me to...'

formal language, literature · Formal, more common in older or literary texts — but still used today · figurative

It pains me to see so many people struggling without support.

It pained her to admit that she had made a mistake.

It pains him to talk about what happened that day.

Content generated by AI — may contain inaccuracies