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pain point

American  
[peyn point] / ˈpeɪn ˌpɔɪnt /

noun

  1. a problem, frustration, or troublesome issue, especially one experienced by consumers, customers, or employees.

    Getting stuck in a slow checkout line is a major pain point for grocery shoppers.


Etymology

Origin of pain point

First recorded in 2000–05

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.

See Examples For:

Gross margins looked to be another particular pain point for investors.

From MarketWatch Aug. 5, 2026

With year-over-year inflation at a three-year high of 4.2% in May, earnings haven’t been keeping up with price increases, a pain point for consumers.

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 2, 2026

Gasoline will be a pain point for travelers this Memorial Day weekend.

From Los Angeles Times May 23, 2026

Shorter lines would actually relieve pressure to get a funding deal done by taking away a major pain point.

From Salon Mar. 25, 2026

"This is undoubtedly going to be a pain point for the US economy," Knightley said.

From Barron's Mar. 3, 2026

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