Inflict on

usgb
verb

To cause something harmful, painful, or unpleasant to happen to someone or something.

He was accused of inflicting serious injuries on an innocent man.
Visual representation of "inflict on" - To cause something harmful, painful, or unpleasant to happen to someone or something

Often appears as...

  • inflict pain on
  • inflict damage on

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "inflict on"
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Negative Action

The phrase often suggests a deliberate, rather than accidental, harmful action.

Illustration for Negative Action
The school bully was known to inflict pain on smaller kids.
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Strong Impact

Use 'inflict on' to emphasize a strong or intense effect of an action.

Illustration for Strong Impact
The harsh criticism she inflicted on her team demoralized everyone.
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Recipient Required

Remember to specify who suffers as a result of what is inflicted.

Illustration for Recipient Required
The earthquake inflicted severe damage on the coastal communities.
Visual representation of the word "Inflict on"

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