beset
What does "beset" mean?
To be "beset" means to be surrounded, troubled, or persistently attacked by something, usually something negative or difficult. Imagine a traveler being surrounded by a dense, dark forest on all sides, or a fortress being hemmed in by an advancing army; the word implies that the subject is trapped or overwhelmed by external pressures. It is a formal, slightly literary term often used to describe struggles or challenges. You will frequently see it used in phrases like "beset by problems," "beset by difficulties," or "beset by doubts," suggesting that these issues are closing in from every direction and making progress very difficult.
"beset" in conversation
Discussing a project
Our project is beset by technical glitches again.
Our project is beset by technical glitches again.
It feels like we can't catch a break this week.
It feels like we can't catch a break this week.
Used to describe recurring, overwhelming obstacles.
Reflecting on a busy life
I’ve been beset by worries lately.
I’ve been beset by worries lately.
Maybe you should take some time off to recharge.
Maybe you should take some time off to recharge.
Highlights the feeling of being trapped by internal or external anxieties.
"beset" in a sentence
The small village was beset by heavy storms for weeks.
The small village was beset by heavy storms for weeks.
The leader was beset by criticism from all sides of the political spectrum.
The leader was beset by criticism from all sides of the political spectrum.
Despite being beset by numerous setbacks, the explorer refused to abandon the expedition.
Despite being beset by numerous setbacks, the explorer refused to abandon the expedition.
