burden crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "burden" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct answer.
Solutions for "burden crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
TAX: A financial obligation or heavy demand often perceived as a burden.
4 Letters
LOAD: Something heavy to be carried, whether physically or metaphorically as a responsibility.
ONUS: A responsibility or duty, particularly a difficult or disagreeable one.
DUTY: A moral or legal obligation, which can sometimes be a burden.
5 Letters
CROSS: A heavy trial or affliction; something difficult to bear, often referring to a personal burden.
6 Letters
CHARGE: A responsibility or duty laid upon someone, which can be a burden.
WEIGHT: A heavy burden or pressure, indicating something that is difficult to cope with.
11 Letters
ENCUMBRANCE: A burden or impediment, a hindrance or a lien on property.
More About "burden crossword puzzle clue"
The term "burden" in crossword puzzles is a versatile clue that can refer to various concepts, ranging from physical weight to abstract responsibilities or emotional distress. Recognizing the context within the clue is crucial for selecting the correct answer. For instance, a clue mentioning 'heavy load' would lean towards answers like LOAD or WEIGHT, while a clue about a 'duty' or 'responsibility' would suggest ONUS or OBLIGATION.
Historically, the concept of a burden has been a common theme in literature and philosophy, representing challenges and responsibilities that individuals or societies must bear. In crosswords, this rich semantic field allows for a wide array of synonyms and related terms to be used as solutions, making it a challenging yet rewarding clue to solve.
This clue often tests a solver's vocabulary depth and ability to grasp nuances. It's not just about direct synonyms but also about related concepts or outcomes of carrying a burden, such as a 'tax' or a 'levy' if the burden is financial, or 'grief' if it's emotional. Always consider the wordplay and potential double meanings typical of crossword puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always check the number of letters required. This is your primary filter for eliminating incorrect answers. For "burden," knowing if it's 3, 4, 5, or more letters instantly narrows down the possibilities.
- Consider Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, crossing letters from solved clues will reveal letters for "burden," significantly aiding your decision. Fill in what you know first!
- Think of Contextual Synonyms: Beyond direct synonyms, consider words that imply "burden" in specific contexts (e.g., legal, financial, emotional). For instance, 'TAX' might not be a direct synonym but implies a financial burden.
- Check for Homonyms or Puns: Crossword constructors love wordplay. "Burden" could sometimes refer to a "burro's den" in a cryptic clue, though less common in standard puzzles. Always keep an eye out for less literal interpretations if direct answers don't fit.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'burden' typically refer to in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'burden' often refers to a responsibility, obligation, weight, or something difficult to carry or endure. Common answers include 'ONUS', 'LOAD', 'DUTY', or 'TAX'.
Are there common synonyms for 'burden' that appear as crossword answers?
Yes, many synonyms for 'burden' are frequently used. Beyond the direct synonyms like 'load' or 'onus', you might find words like 'charge', 'duty', 'tax', 'weight', 'grief', or even more abstract terms like 'cross' (as in 'a heavy cross to bear').
How can I tell if 'burden' in a clue refers to a physical weight or a responsibility?
Context is key. Look at other words in the clue. If it mentions 'cargo', 'shipping', or 'lift', it might be physical (e.g., LOAD, FREIGHT). If it mentions 'responsibility', 'obligation', 'task', or 'duty', it points to a metaphorical burden (e.g., ONUS, DUTY, CHARGE).