torture
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torture
The deliberate infliction of severe physical or psychological pain in order to force a statement, punish someone, or intimidate them.
Folter ist eine schwere Verletzung der Menschenrechte.
Torture is a serious violation of human rights.
The noun 'die Folter' (torture) is directly connected to the verb 'foltern' (to torture, to inflict pain on someone). The person who tortures is called 'der Folterer' (the torturer).
Er wurde gefoltert, um Informationen preiszugeben.
He was tortured in order to reveal information.
In its literal meaning, 'Folter' (torture) is a very strong and serious word. It is mainly used in serious contexts such as history, law, politics, and human rights violations.
Die Organisation kämpft weltweit gegen den Einsatz von Folter.
The organization fights worldwide against the use of torture.
In the figurative sense, 'Folter' (torture) is used as a strong exaggeration (hyperbole) for a very unpleasant, annoying, or drawn-out situation. This use is colloquial.
Auf das Ergebnis zwei Wochen warten zu müssen, war eine echte Folter.
Having to wait two weeks for the result was real torture.
In the figurative meaning, the word is often combined with 'reinste' to intensify the exaggerated statement: 'die reinste Folter sein' (to be pure torture).
Diese langweilige Musik den ganzen Tag hören zu müssen, ist die reinste Folter.
Having to listen to this boring music all day is pure torture.
agony / torment
'Folter' and 'Qual' both have to do with severe suffering. But 'Folter' usually means that someone deliberately inflicts severe pain on another person, often to apply pressure or force a statement. 'Qual' describes the suffering itself, whether physical or emotional. Figuratively, a very unpleasant experience can also be called 'Folter'; then it is closer to 'Qual'. The words can therefore be confused. More precisely: 'Folter' emphasizes the action and intention, while 'Qual' emphasizes the painful state.
In dem Bericht geht es um Folter in einem Gefängnis.
The report is about torture in a prison.
Die langen Schmerzen waren für den Patienten eine große Qual.
The long-lasting pain was great agony for the patient.