What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stress
Example
I'm feeling a lot of stress at work lately. [stress: noun]
Example
She tends to stress out when she has too much to do. [stress: verb]
Example
The teacher stressed the importance of studying for the exam. [stressed: past tense]
burden
Example
The backpack was too heavy and felt like a burden. [burden: noun]
Example
He didn't want to burden his family with his problems. [burden: verb]
Example
The financial burden of the medical bills was overwhelming. [burden: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stress is a more commonly used word than burden in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and can be used in both formal and informal situations. Burden is less common and tends to be used in more specific or serious contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between stress and burden?
Stress is a versatile word that can be used in various formality levels, while burden is often associated with a more serious or formal tone, particularly when used in the context of responsibility or obligation.