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Definition suffer in British English

suffer verb

verb
/ˈsʌfə(r)/

▪ attack, consequence, damage, decline, defeat, fate, humiliation, indignity, loss, setback

1

to feel pain in your body or your mind

Example

Don't worry, the animal won't suffer any pain.

Example

When parents argue constantly, it's the children who suffer most.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

to have a particular illness or physical problem

Example

patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease

Example

She suffered from depression for most of her adult life.

Synonyms and related words
2

to experience something very unpleasant or painful

Example

Some patients suffered severe side-effects from the treatment.

Example

About one fifth of adults have suffered occasional periods of unemployment.

Example

Our team suffered another humiliating defeat last night.

Example

If you choose to ignore the rules, you'll have to suffer the consequences.

Synonyms and related words
2.1

to be badly affected by a very difficult or unpleasant situation

Example

a prolonged civil war, in which ordinary people have suffered terribly

Example

The region continues to suffer from serious pollution.

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3

to become worse or less successful

Example

Ben was constantly away from home on business and, not surprisingly, their relationship suffered.

Synonyms and related words
4

an old word meaning 'to allow something'

Synonyms and related words
Definition suffer in British English