What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
barnacle
Example
The barnacles on the ship's hull needed to be scraped off. [barnacles: noun]
Example
She's like a barnacle, always clinging to her friends. [barnacle: noun]
burden
Example
He struggled to carry the burden of his family's expectations. [burden: noun]
Example
Don't burden yourself with too many tasks at once. [burden: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Burden is more commonly used than barnacle in everyday language. Burden is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while barnacle is less common and specific to certain situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between barnacle and burden?
Both barnacle and burden can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, burden is more commonly used and therefore may be considered slightly more formal than barnacle.