What is the difference between cumber and encumber?

Definitions

cumber

- Referring to something that is a hindrance or obstacle.

- Describing something that is burdensome or troublesome.

- Talking about something that is unnecessary or superfluous.

encumber

- Referring to something that is a hindrance or obstacle.

- Describing something that is burdensome or troublesome.

- Talking about something that is blocking or impeding progress.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words refer to something that is a hindrance or obstacle.
• 2. Both words describe something that is burdensome or troublesome.
• 3. Both words can be used in a negative context.

What is the difference?

• 1. Usage: Encumber is more commonly used than cumber in everyday language.
• 2. Connotation: Encumber has a stronger connotation of blocking or impeding progress, while cumber is more associated with being unnecessary or superfluous.
• 3. Formality: Encumber is more formal than cumber, which is considered archaic and less commonly used.

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Remember this!

Cumber and encumber are synonyms that both refer to something that is a hindrance or obstacle. However, encumber is more commonly used and has a stronger connotation of blocking or impeding progress, while cumber is less commonly used and is more associated with being unnecessary or superfluous.