be painful

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.

If a bill would be painful but manageable, paying out of pocket may be the savvier move in the long run.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026

“That is the honest answer and that’s going to be painful and difficult. But we’ll get it done,” Musk said on the earnings call.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

Looking at old videos can still be painful for Naumov.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 10, 2026

"The United States is making a miscalculation that is not only dangerous but could be painful," Renew group's Hayer said in a statement.

From Barron's • Jan. 19, 2026

Beefy pulled on his father’s ear, and Talis cringed; the baby’s grip could be painful.

From "Witchlings" by Claribel A. Ortega