pain point

American  

[peyn point] / ˈpeɪn ˌpɔɪnt /

noun

1. a problem, frustration, or troublesome issue, especially one experienced by consumers, customers, or employees.

   Getting stuck in a slow checkout line is a major pain point for grocery shoppers.

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Etymology

Origin of pain point

First recorded in 2000–05

Example Sentences

"This is undoubtedly going to be a pain point for the US economy," Knightley said.

From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026

Rapaport may be Season 4’s obvious pain point, but it has its pleasures too.

From Salon • Jan. 15, 2026

AFHA-backed mortgages, for instance, require an appraisal and an inspection, which can be a pain point for sellers, but it’s required by the U.S. government since it is ultimately backing the loan.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 30, 2025

Rising coffee prices are an acute pain point for consumers and small shop owners.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 29, 2025

The issue became an unexpected pain point in Skydance’s pursuit of FCC approval to take over the CBS licenses.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 2, 2025