woes

NOUN

suffering

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adversity anguish burden calamity catastrophe disaster gloom hardship headache misery misfortune pain tragedy trouble

STRONG

affliction agony blues care cataclysm curse dejection depression distress dole drag grief heartache heartbreak lamentation melancholy misadventure rain regret rue sadness sorrow trial tribulation unhappiness wretchedness

WEAK

bemoaning deploring grieving

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advantage aid assistance benefit blessing boon cheer comfort contentment encouragement favor fortune good fortune good health good luck happiness help joy miracle pleasure profit prosperity success wonder

STRONG

gladness health joyousness peace relief

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.

Raman’s camp responded by saying the council member has comprehensive plans to address homelessness, public safety and the woes facing the entertainment industry.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

This has been exacerbated by the woes in the commercial property market, which was hit by the shift to working from home since lockdowns were introduced, and rising interest rates.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

The Green Mountain saga has taken an unusual turn, but reflects a more common challenge set off by the shrinking enrollment and financial woes closing colleges nationwide.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 7, 2026

France's budget woes do not seem to end.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

Cures had begun to be attributed to Patria; Maria Teresa was great on love woes; and as for Minerva, she was competing with the Virgencita as Patroness of Impossible Causes.

From "In the Time of the Butterflies" by Julia Alvarez