burden

[ˈbɜːdn]

burden Definition

  • 1a heavy load that is difficult to carry
  • 2something that is emotionally difficult to bear
  • 3a responsibility or duty

Using burden: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "burden" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The burden of carrying the heavy boxes was too much for him.

  • Example

    She felt a great burden of guilt after the accident.

  • Example

    It is our burden to ensure that everyone is safe.

  • Example

    The burden of proof lies with the prosecution.

burden Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for burden

Idioms Using burden

  • a burden on someone's shoulders

    a responsibility or problem that someone has to deal with

    Example

    The financial burden of the family fell on her shoulders after her husband lost his job.

  • if you share a problem or responsibility with someone else, it becomes easier to deal with

    Example

    I confided in my friend about my troubles, and she said that a burden shared is a burden halved.

  • put/lay a burden on someone

    to give someone a responsibility or problem to deal with

    Example

    It's not fair to put the burden of the project on one person; we should all share the workload.

Phrases with burden

  • to accept and deal with a difficult situation or responsibility

    Example

    As the leader of the team, he had to bear the burden of making tough decisions.

  • the obligation to prove one's assertion

    Example

    In a court of law, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution.

  • to make something less difficult or oppressive

    Example

    Hiring an assistant helped to lighten the burden of his workload.

Origins of burden

from Old English 'byrthen'

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Summary: burden in Brief

The term 'burden' [ˈbɜːdn] refers to a heavy load that is difficult to carry, whether physical or emotional. It can also denote a responsibility or duty, as in 'It is our burden to ensure that everyone is safe.' Phrases like 'bear the burden' and idioms like 'a burden shared is a burden halved' suggest ways to cope with burdensome situations.

How do native speakers use this expression?