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Dictionary definition of agonize

To experience intense mental or emotional suffering, often as a result of a difficult decision or situation.
"He started to agonize about the possible outcomes of the surgery."

Detailed meaning of agonize

When someone is agonizing, they may be deeply troubled or distressed, perhaps feeling torn between conflicting options or struggling with feelings of guilt, regret, or doubt. The process of agonizing can be a slow and painful one, involving a great deal of introspection and self-reflection. Someone who is agonizing may be tormented by a particular issue for an extended period of time, grappling with their thoughts and emotions as they try to come to a resolution or make a choice. Despite the difficult nature of the experience, agonizing can also be a sign of a person's deep caring and commitment to a particular issue or relationship. Ultimately, the process of agonizing can be an important step in reaching a decision or finding a way forward, as it forces someone to confront and work through difficult feelings and thoughts.

Example sentences of agonize

1. She began to agonize over the decision of which college to attend.
2. Don't agonize over the decision; we will support you either way.
3. She tends to agonize over minor details, delaying the project.
4. If you continually agonize over past mistakes, you'll hinder your future progress.
5. Students often agonize about their grades and academic performance.
6. Entrepreneurs agonize over making the right choices for their start-ups.

History and etymology of agonize

The verb 'agonize' has its etymological origins in ancient Greek. It is derived from the Greek word 'agonizomai,' which is related to 'agon,' meaning 'contest' or 'struggle.' In its original Greek usage, 'agonizomai' was associated with the intense physical and mental struggle that athletes endured during athletic competitions and contests. Over time, the word's meaning expanded to include the experience of intense mental or emotional suffering, often as a result of a difficult decision or situation. The etymology of 'agonize' reflects its historical connection to the concept of struggle and contest, emphasizing the mental and emotional battles individuals face when confronted with challenging circumstances or decisions.

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Further usage examples of agonize

1. Try not to agonize over the things you cannot change.
2. The coach will agonize over the best strategy for the upcoming match.
3. Parents often agonize over the right school for their children.
4. Do not agonize over her opinion; focus on what you believe.
5. She began to agonize over the possible results of the job interview.
6. Artists often agonize over their work, striving for perfection.
7. Too often, we agonize over decisions when we should trust our intuition.
8. He tends to agonize about the financial implications of his investments.
9. Novelists can agonize over the best way to end their stories.
10. Let's not agonize over this issue; instead, let's find a solution.
11. Critics can agonize over a single word when writing their reviews.
12. Athletes often agonize over the perfect diet and training schedule.
13. You should not agonize over mistakes, but learn from them.
14. We tend to agonize over the future, forgetting to live in the present.