What does “On my back” mean?
"On my back" means carrying a heavy burden or responsibility.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I feel like I have the weight of the world on my back.
Example
The project is so demanding, it's like I have a mountain on my back.
Example
Being the sole provider for my family, I constantly have financial worries on my back
Is “On my back” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“On my back” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “On my back” effectively in context?
You can use "On my back" to describe the feeling of carrying a heavy burden or responsibility. It emphasizes the weight and pressure of the situation. For example, if you have a lot of work to do and feel overwhelmed, you might say, 'I have so many deadlines, it feels like I have the weight of the world "on my back".'
- 1Work
The project is so demanding, it's like I have a mountain on my back.
- 2Personal Life
Being the sole provider for my family, I constantly have financial worries on my back.
- 3Emotional Stress
After the breakup, I felt like I had the weight of the world on my back.
Similar phrases to “On my back”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “On my back” come from?
The origin of the phrase "On my back" is unknown.
Is “On my back” common in everyday conversation?
"On my back" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe the feeling of carrying a heavy burden or responsibility.
What tone does “On my back” have?
"On my back" conveys a tone of heaviness and stress. It suggests that the situation is overwhelming and difficult to handle.
Can “On my back” be used in informal and formal settings?
"On my back" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common feeling of being burdened. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I feel like I have the weight of the world on my back.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'So much to do, it's all "on my back"!' to imply a heavy workload.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- burdened
- overwhelmed
- stressed
- weighted down
- loaded with responsibility
Antonyms
- carefree
- unburdened
- relieved
- light-hearted
