inflicts

VERB

impose something

Synonyms

STRONGEST

exact expose levy wreak

STRONG

administer apply command deliver dispense extort force give require strike subject visit

WEAK

bring upon deal out force upon give it to lay down the law mete out stick it to

Antonyms

STRONG

hold keep take withhold

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.

Sensitively, the film portrays the devastation Alzheimer's disease inflicts on a patient's loved ones.

From Barron's • Feb. 21, 2026

It instead paints him as a fraud and inflicts a massive blow to his business empire and wealth.

From BBC • Feb. 17, 2024

Such policies hold intuitive appeal: Buyers are still free to purchase a big SUV and truck, but they must pay extra to account for the costs their purchase inflicts on everyone else.

From Slate • Dec. 17, 2023

“The jury recognized the lifelong harm that childhood sexual abuse inflicts on its victims,” said attorney Natalie Weatherford.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 13, 2023

Is humanity worth the pain it inflicts upon itself?

From "Impossible Creatures" by Katherine Rundell