adj [usu attrib 通常作定语] that makes one very tired or weak; severe 十分吃力的; 使人筋疲力尽的; 严厉的
*a punishing climb up the hill 十分吃力的登山活动
* a punishing defeat 惨重的失败. n [sing] (infml 口) severe defeat or damage 极大的失败或损坏
*My boots have taken quite a punishing recently I need a new pair. 我的靴子近来已经破得不得了了--我需要一双新的.