These words are nearly the same, but not quite.
Discomfort, as a noun, means “a state or feeling of uneasiness, the opposite of comfort”:
We usually think that discomfort is bad, but sometimes discomfort leads to change.
(Discomfit is not used as a noun).
As verbs, both words can mean, “to cause discomfort or uneasiness.”
Discomfit, however, also has a more general and abstract meaning than discomfort. While discomfort can only refer to physical or mental uneasiness, discomfit can also refer to any kind of inconvenience or obstacle:
We will discomfit the enemy by flooding the roads before they get here.
In this sentence, discomfit means frustrate, block, or inconvenience; you cannot use discomfort this way.
More Examples of How to Use "Discomfit" in a Sentence
- Lawrence felt discomfited by her praise and compliments at work, which were unexpected and unwelcome.
- Alberta was discomfited by the award, as she didn't believe she had done anything special to warrant it.
- The bizarre news discomfited her, but she tried not to let it show.
- After the argument, Serena was left discomfited.
- Julian was discomfited by the lack of sympathy that was shown to him by his coworkers after his boss scolded him in front of everybody.
More Examples of How to Use "Discomfort" in a Sentence
- The discomfort that Tatiana felt in her new job made her consider quitting.
- Discomfit your opponent and they will have to rethink their strategy, making them less likely to succeed.
- There was a sense of discomfort in the room as the new CEO entered the room.
- I can't stand the discomfort in my jaw; I don’t even feel like eating anymore!
- After lifting a large box at work, James began experiencing a great deal of discomfort in his lower back.