B2verbUK spelling: agoniseemotionspsychology
US/ˈæɡ.ə.naɪz/
UK/ˈæɡ.ə.naɪz/
to worry and spend a long time thinking about a difficult decision
In context
She agonized over whether to accept the job in another city.
Don't agonize about small mistakes; everyone makes them.
He agonized for weeks before telling his parents the truth.
Words that go with agonize
verb + preposition
- agonize overStudents often agonize over their exam results.
- agonize aboutDon't agonize about what to wear.
- agonize over a decisionThey agonized over the decision for months.
- agonize over whetherShe agonized over whether to quit her job.
verb + adverb
- agonize for weeksShe agonized for weeks about the letter.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
She agonized the decision.Correct: She agonized over the decision.