Definition of Hurt
Quick Meaning of Hurt
To cause pain or damage to a person, animal, or your feelings.
Detailed Definition of Hurt
To cause physical or emotional pain to someone or something.
How to Pronounce Hurt
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: The 'ur' sound is like in 'bird' not 'her'. The final 't' is sharp and clear.
Watch out: Some confuse the vowel sound with 'heart' /hɑːrt/ instead of /hɜːrt/.
How to Use Hurt in a Sentence
Each example shows “hurt” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Be careful not to hurt yourself with the knife.”
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“His words hurt her feelings deeply.”
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“The scandal hurt the company's reputation significantly.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Hurt
Common Synonyms for Hurt
Smart Synonyms for Hurt — When to Use Each
- injure
- for physical damage to body or structure
- wound
- for serious physical or emotional injury
Antonyms of Hurt
Common Collocations with Hurt
These phrases pair with “hurt” in everyday English:
- hurt feelings
- hurt someone's pride
- it hurts
Common Mistakes When Using Hurt
Even fluent speakers slip up with “hurt”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: This medicine will hurt the pain.
- ✓ Correct: This medicine will ease the pain.
- Why: Hurt means to cause pain, not remove it; use 'ease', 'relieve', or 'reduce'.
- ✗ Wrong: I am hurted by the accident.
- ✓ Correct: I was hurt in the accident.
- Why: Hurt is already past tense (irregular); 'hurted' doesn't exist. Use 'was hurt'.
Other Forms of Hurt
Frequently Asked Questions About Hurt
What is the meaning of "Hurt"?
To cause pain or damage to a person, animal, or your feelings.
How do you pronounce "Hurt"?
The IPA is /hɜːrt/. The 'ur' sound is like in 'bird' not 'her'. The final 't' is sharp and clear.
What part of speech is "Hurt"?
"Hurt" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Hurt"?
Common synonyms include injure, wound, damage.
How do you use "Hurt" in a sentence?
For example: "Be careful not to hurt yourself with the knife."