inflict
verb (used with object)
to impose as something that must be borne or suffered.
inflicting
-
present participleof inflict.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
"If the person who did this had been brought to justice, it would prevent someone else from inflicting the same suffering on others... because people would know that there is justice," Yousufi said.
From Barron's ● Sep. 1, 2026
Sir Keir said there was "real unity" among G7 leaders on Ukraine, which he said was regaining territory and inflicting huge losses on occupying Russian forces.
From BBC ● Jun. 16, 2026
His mother, Lisa Petrie, has called for tougher bail restrictions for those accused of inflicting serious injuries with knives.
From BBC ● Jun. 7, 2026
In his novel “Sacred Hunger,” Barry Unsworth wrote: “Nothing a man suffers will prevent him from inflicting suffering on others. Indeed, it will teach him the way.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 29, 2026
Not only did I not like being the center of attention—that’s a job better suited for the twins—but I also felt bad for inflicting pain on Chencho, even though I had been suspicious of him.
From "Summer of the Mariposas" by Guadalupe García McCall
