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
Synonyms for burden
Idioms Using burden
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.
Example
It's not fair to put the burden of the project on one person; we should all share the workload.
Phrases with burden
Example
As the leader of the team, he had to bear the burden of making tough decisions.
Example
In a court of law, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution.
Example
Hiring an assistant helped to lighten the burden of his workload.
Origins of burden
from Old English 'byrthen'
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.