modern usage of the verb "hurt" [duplicate]
I have a questing about the (modern) usage of the verb "hurt". I have learned and always understood that if you have incurred an injury or you are in pain, the correct phrase is: "I am hurt". This phrase can also be used in a psychological sense, for example when someone has insulted you.
Nowadays, when I watch American films or programs on the television, I notice that many people say: "I am hurting". I find this surprising and amusing. Because it seems to me that "I am hurting" literally means "I am causing pain", which is obviously not the intended meaning.
I wonder if this is modern (American) usage of the verb "hurt". Is it considered correct? Or is it a slang/street phrase used by lower-educated people, frowned upon by higher-educated people?
Solution 1:
Originally, and still mainly an AmE usage:
Hurting:
- generally miserable or in trouble.
1957 [US] H. Simmons Corner Boy 124: Specs was hurting, man, was he hurting.
1966 [US] H.S. Thompson Hell’s Angels (1967) 36: I mean the heat was on, man. We were hurtin’. 1970 [US] D. Ponicsan Last Detail 120: ‘Make out pretty well there, do you?’ ‘I ain’t hurtin’.’.
1984 [Can] Totally True Diaries of an Eighties Roller Queen 2 Sept. I don’t want go back to school. It’s going to be hurtin’.
2005 [Ire] P. Howard Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nightdress 24: I know you’re basically hurting, Babes.
(GDoS)