inflict
verb (used with object)
to impose as something that must be borne or suffered.
have inflicted
-
present perfectof inflict.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
More accomplished sides than Panama would have inflicted serious punishment.
From BBC ● Jul. 1, 2026
These policies have inflicted devastating consequences particularly in Africa, where large volumes of oil and gas in multiple fields were discovered in the 2010s.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 26, 2026
Motherwell were worthy winners at Fir Park and could have inflicted a far more embarrassing scoreline on Nancy's men but for wasteful finishing in their first home win over Celtic since 2013.
From Barron's ● Dec. 30, 2025
The Palisades and Eaton fires have inflicted a traumatic toll on teenagers, many of whom already had their childhoods upended by the COVID-19 pandemic.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 17, 2025
But when I ask you to make allowances for him, who has gone through sufferings a hundred-fold more acute, which you have inflicted upon him, what kind of response do I receive?
From Harper's New Monthly Magazine, Vol. 3, No. 15, August, 1851 by Various
