ENGLISH
REFERENCE

woes

n. C / U
C1 Advanced US //ˈwoʊz// UK //wˈəʊz// woes

n. big problems or troubles that cause a lot of worry. People often use this word when talking about money or serious life difficulties.

n. great sorrows or distress; serious problems or misfortunes. Often used in the plural to describe systemic or financial difficulties.


SIMPLE

The company is facing serious financial woes.

CONTEXTUAL

The country's economic woes have led to a sharp increase in the cost of living for many families.

COMPLEX

The report highlights how the city's infrastructure woes are not merely a matter of funding, but a result of decades of administrative neglect and poor urban planning.

Synonyms
Usage

Commonly used in the plural form ('woes') when referring to a collection of problems.

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