1. A cause of pain or distress: This is the more common meaning. It refers to something that brings suffering, like a disease, an injury, or a personal problem.
Examples:
* "The soldier was suffering from the affliction of PTSD."
* "Poverty is a great affliction in many parts of the world."
* "The town was struck by an affliction of drought."
2. The state of being in pain or distress: This meaning focuses on the suffering itself.
Examples:
* "He endured his affliction with great courage."
* "Her affliction was evident in her tearful eyes."
Note: "Affliction" is often used in a religious context to refer to suffering as a test of faith or a way to draw closer to God.