# alleviation

/əˌɫiviˈeɪʃən/ (US) · /ɐlˌiːvɪˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/alleviation
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

making pain, worry, or a difficult problem less strong or easier to live with. You use it when something does not fix a problem fully but helps you feel better.

For teachers: reduction or lessening of pain, suffering, or the severity of a problem or burden. Typically followed by 'of' naming the condition relieved.

## Examples

- This medicine brings quick alleviation of headache pain.
- The community centre extends its hours for the alleviation of overcrowding during winter months.
- Despite new funding for flood defences, complete alleviation of risk in low-lying districts remains dependent on long-term planning and regional cooperation.

## Synonyms

relief, easing, lessen

## Antonyms

aggravation

## Usage notes

- Typically followed by 'of' plus the pain, problem, or burden relieved, as in 'alleviation of pain'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.