bane
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “bane” mean?
noun.a cause of great distress or annoyance.
SAT Usage
This term often appears in passages related to literature, personal struggles, or societal issues, emphasizing the weight of negative experiences or influences. It implies a persistent source of suffering or trouble, distinguishing it from similar words like "nuisance," which suggests annoyance without the deeper emotional or existential impact.
Common Confusions
Bane implies a profound source of distress or suffering, while nuisance usually suggests a minor annoyance that is bothersome but not deeply impactful.
Do not choose bane if the context emphasizes pleasure or enjoyment rather than a cause of great distress or annoyance.
Example Sentences
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Procrastination was the bane of his academic career.
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The bane of her existence was the incessant noise from the construction site next door, which disrupted her peace and concentration.