noun
Common
pains
paynz
Pains (noun) means Careful, deliberate effort put into doing something well (usually in the phrase "take pains"). Example: “The chef takes pains over every plate before it leaves the kitchen.”
noun
1
Careful, deliberate effort put into doing something well (usually in the phrase "take pains").
"The chef takes pains over every plate before it leaves the kitchen."
"She took great pains to make sure every detail was correct."
"He went to considerable pains to hide his mistake."
How to use pains
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEffort and care spent getting something right, almost always used with "take" or "go to."
Common mistake
Only really survives in fixed phrases like "take pains" — it isn't used as a plain plural of physical pain in that sense.
Common pairings
take pains to do something
go to great pains
spare no pains
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The chef takes _____ over every plate before it leaves the kitchen.
Related words
Rhymes for pains
See all rhymes for pains →Frequently asked questions
What does “pains” mean?
The word “pains” means careful, deliberate effort put into doing something well (usually in the phrase "take pains"). In plain terms, effort and care spent getting something right, almost always used with "take" or "go to.".
How do you pronounce “pains”?
“Pains” is pronounced paynz (/peɪnz/ in IPA).
How do you use “pains” in a sentence?
Here is “pains” used in a sentence: “She took great pains to make sure every detail was correct.”
What part of speech is “pains”?
“Pains” is a noun.
Is “pains” a common word?
“Pains” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between pains in take pains and pain meaning physical discomfort?
In the phrase take pains, pains refers to careful effort or trouble taken over a task, while pain in its more common singular sense refers to physical or emotional discomfort. The two uses are related historically but function quite differently in modern English.
Is take pains a formal expression?
Take pains has a slightly formal or literary tone and appears more often in written English than in casual speech, where phrases like go to great lengths or make an effort are more typical.
