Verb
/atoɾmenˈtaɾ/
The verb "atormentar" means to inflict severe distress or suffering on someone, physically or mentally. It can be used in various contexts, ranging from physical torture to emotional distress. "Atormentar" is commonly found in both spoken and written Spanish, with a slight inclination toward literary or dramatic contexts, given its emotive connotation.
Su falta de atención me atormenta cada día.
His lack of attention torments me every day.
No quiero atormentar a mis amigos con mis problemas.
I don't want to torment my friends with my problems.
Las dudas sobre su futuro atormentaban su mente.
The doubts about his future tormented his mind.
While "atormentar" itself is not frequently used in many idiomatic expressions, it can form part of various phrases expressing emotional or psychological anguish. Here are some examples:
La verdad siempre atormenta la conciencia de aquellos que están en culpa.
The truth always torments the conscience of those who are guilty.
No atormentar más a alguien
A veces es mejor no atormentar más a alguien con preguntas.
Sometimes it's better not to torment someone further with questions.
Atormentar el alma
Los remordimientos pueden atormentar el alma durante años.
Regrets can torment the soul for years.
Atrapar y atormentar
El ruido constante pudo atrapar y atormentar a los habitantes de la ciudad.
The constant noise could trap and torment the city's inhabitants.
Atormentar con recuerdos
The word "atormentar" originates from the Latin "tormentare," which means to twist or torment. This, in turn, derives from "tormentum," meaning a tool for torture or suffering, highlighting the word's historical roots in physical and emotional distress.