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.
torture
Figuratively, a very unpleasant, agonizing, or nerve-racking experience.
Das stundenlange Warten in der Schlange war die reinste Folter.
Waiting in line for hours was pure torture.
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
Both words can describe an extremely agonizing experience. Folter presents the suffering figuratively as an especially cruel or tormenting experience, whereas Qual refers more directly to the physical or emotional suffering actually experienced. Folter fits a vivid figurative description, while Qual is more appropriate for the suffering itself.
Die ständigen Drohungen waren für sie eine Folter.
The constant threats were torture for her.
Die ständigen Drohungen waren für sie eine Qual.
The constant threats were agony for her.
