Burdens Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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burdens
[ˈbɜːrdənz ]
Definitions
carry
Burdens refer to heavy loads or responsibilities that weigh someone down physically, mentally, or emotionally.
Synonyms
challenges, loads, responsibilities, troubles.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| burdens |
Typically used to describe heavy or difficult responsibilities or problems that weigh someone down emotionally or physically.
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| loads |
Often refers to a heavy amount of work or a task, and can be used both literally and figuratively. It can imply a large quantity that needs effort to manage.
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| responsibilities |
Describes tasks or duties that someone is expected or required to do, often implying a sense of duty or obligation.
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| troubles |
Refers to difficulties or problems, often with a negative connotation, suggesting issues that cause stress or anxiety.
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| challenges |
Used to describe situations that test someone's ability, skills, or resources in a positive way, implying a chance for growth or improvement.
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Examples of usage
- Her burdens became too much to bear.
- He felt the weight of his burdens on his shoulders.
- The burdens of caring for her sick mother were taking a toll on her.
- Despite his burdens, he remained resilient.
- She struggled under the burdens of debt and work.
saddle
To burden someone is to saddle them with a heavy load or responsibility.
Synonyms
encumber, load, saddle, weigh down.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| burdens |
Used to describe something that causes stress or difficulty and is typically of a mental or emotional nature.
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| saddle |
Typically used metaphorically to indicate placing a burden or responsibility on someone, suggesting that it may be unfair or unwanted.
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| load |
Commonly used to describe a physical weight or burden, like cargo or a heavy task, but can also refer to non-physical responsibilities.
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| encumber |
Often used in a more formal context to describe being hindered or weighed down by obstacles, both tangible and intangible.
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| weigh down |
Used to describe the feeling of being physically or mentally pressed down by worries, responsibilities, or other burdens.
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Examples of usage
- She didn't want to burden him with her problems.
- He felt burdened by the expectations placed on him.
- Parents often burden themselves with guilt over their children's mistakes.
- Don't burden yourself with things that are out of your control.
- The decision to burden him with the task was not taken lightly.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Old English 'byrdian,' which meant to carry or bear a load.
- In medieval times, burdens often referred to taxes or duties owed to a lord, reflecting the weighty responsibilities of society.
- By the 14th century, the word had evolved to describe both physical loads and metaphorical emotional weights.
Psychology
- Carrying emotional burdens can lead to stress and mental fatigue, impacting overall well-being.
- Therapeutic practices often encourage sharing burdens as a way to lighten emotional distress.
- The concept of burdens in psychology relates to how individuals perceive difficult situations and their ability to cope.
Literature
- Many classic novels explore themes of burdens, illustrating characters’ struggles with societal expectations and personal dilemmas.
- Burden-bearing is a common motif in poetry, often symbolizing the human condition and life's hardships.
- In allegorical works, burdens often represent moral or ethical challenges that heroes must overcome.
Culture
- Different cultures have various rituals to help individuals cope with their burdens, such as storytelling or community gatherings.
- Songs and folk tales often depict the sharing of burdens as a way to foster community support and resilience.
- In some traditions, acknowledging one’s burdens publicly can be seen as a strength rather than a weakness.
Economics
- In economics, burdens often refer to the financial responsibilities individuals or businesses face, such as debts or taxes.
- The concept of 'burden of proof' in law relates to the responsibilities placed on individuals in legal scenarios.
- Economic theories sometimes discuss the balance between individual burdens and societal support systems.
Origin of 'burdens'
The word 'burdens' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old English 'byrthen', meaning 'a load'. Over time, the term evolved to encompass not just physical loads but also metaphorical weights such as responsibilities and troubles. The concept of burdens has been prevalent in literature and philosophy, reflecting the universal human experience of carrying heavy loads in various forms.
See also: burdened, burdensome, overburden, unburden.