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.

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Etymology

Origin of pain point

First recorded in 2000–05

Example Sentences

The inconsistency is a particular pain point for legacy broadcasters given the fees they pay Nielsen each year, said the two network executives.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

A neat, new feature aims to get rid of a pain point and make something easier and more efficient.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

That said, to anyone who’s had to catch a flight over the past few weeks, the hourslong wait at security checkpoints have been a bigger pain point than fuel prices and uncomfortable seats.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

Long also doesn’t think that stalling home prices are a big pain point for homeowners.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 28, 2025

Let’s transcend the digital realm for a moment and consider the crux of this pain point, which reveals a conundrum that reaches far beyond our phones.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 5, 2025