put someone out of their misery
End prolonged suffering
To put someone out of their misery is to end their suffering, originally by killing a mortally wounded person or animal: The horse broke its leg and had to be put out of its misery.
More commonly now, it means to relieve suspense or anxiety by giving awaited information: Just tell me if I got the job—put me out of my misery.
Painless death for suffering
- humaneMarked by kindness
- painlessCausing no discomfort
- assisted suicideHelping someone end life
- lethal injectionCapital punishment by needle
end-of-life · right to die · terminal illness · dignity · sedation · final moments · incurable · voluntary
Ease or soothing relief
- easeLack of strain
- alleviateLessen pain or trouble
- sootheGently ease discomfort
- reliefEasing of distress
respite · mercy · solace · compassion · empathy · caring · supportive · gentleness
Make something visible
- break the newsReveal significant information
- answerSolution to query
- resolveFirmness of purpose
- clear upResolve or brighten
enlighten · clarify · explain · disclose · suspense · waiting · anticipation · uncertainty
mercy killing
Painless death for suffering
- humaneMarked by kindness
- painlessCausing no discomfort
- assisted suicideHelping someone end life
lethal injection · end-of-life · right to die · terminal illness · dignity · sedation · final moments · incurable · voluntary · consent
comfort
Ease or soothing relief
relief · respite · mercy · solace · compassion · empathy · caring · supportive · gentleness · tenderhearted
reveal
Make something visible
- break the newsReveal significant information
- answerSolution to query
- resolveFirmness of purpose
clear up · enlighten · clarify · explain · disclose · suspense · waiting · anticipation · uncertainty · anxiety
put someone out of their miserytorture
Deliberate infliction of suffering
put someone out of their miseryleave someone hanging
Fail to conclude matters
put someone out of their miseryrub salt in the wound
Deliberately worsen someone's distress