Synonyms for

Burden

Verb / ˈbɜ:dʌn / Another word for burden — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A heavy load that someone has to carry, either physically or emotionally.

Synonyms & similar words

unburden burthen charge core loading essence onus incumbrance encumbrance saddle weight weightdown effect gist load load weight responsibility obligation onus encumbrance trial hardship trouble problem difficulty stress strain pressure drag millstone deadweight

Synonyms by register

Formal

encumbrance liability responsibility obligation

Informal

drag pain hassle load

Literary

albatross millstone weight

Antonyms

relief ease comfort joy pleasure advantage benefit

Common collocations

  • heavy burden
  • financial burden
  • emotional burden
  • bear the burden
  • lift the burden
  • share the burden
  • ease the burden
  • a burden to

Word family

noun burden
verb burden
adjective burdensome

Usage note

Often used to describe a difficult responsibility or something that causes worry or hardship. Can be physical, emotional, or financial.

Example sentences

  1. The backpack was a heavy burden to carry.
  2. The loss of her pet was a heavy emotional burden.
  3. The responsibility of being a parent can be a burden.
  4. The financial burden of college tuition can be overwhelming.
  5. His illness was a burden on his family.

Quotes

  • The heaviest burden in the world is a great potential. - Linus Pauling
  • The burden of the self is lightened with I laugh at myself. - Rabindranath Tagore
  • The heaviest burden we have to carry in life is the past. - Anonymous

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