What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overburden
Example
The workers were overburdened with heavy loads of bricks. [overburdened: past participle]
Example
The teacher was overburdened with grading papers and preparing lesson plans. [overburdened: adjective]
overload
Example
The truck was overloaded with too many boxes, making it difficult to drive. [overloaded: past participle]
Example
My brain feels overloaded with all the new information I learned today. [overloaded: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Overload is more commonly used than overburden in everyday language. Overload is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while overburden is less common and refers to a specific type of burden.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overburden and overload?
Both overburden and overload are formal words that are typically used in professional or academic contexts.
