burdensome relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "burdensome relationship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship that is difficult, demanding, or causes stress to one or both parties involved. Example: "After years of arguing and misunderstandings, I realized that I was in a burdensome relationship that was affecting my mental health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It was "a fitting image for what turned out to be the beginning of, for Filipinos, a long, often burdensome relationship with the U.S.," as the Philippine Daily Inquirer put it.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Howard M. Halpern, a psychotherapist who wrote popular self-help books about severing or realigning burdensome relationships, died on Dec. 25 in Manhattan.

The New York Times

Ryan also delivers motivational speeches, using the analogy "What's In Your Backpack?" to extol the virtues of a life free of burdensome relationships with people as well as things.

Wikipedia

As you love yourself, life becomes less burdensome and relationships become easier and more spontaneous.

HuffPost

Social exchange theory suggests that without shared beliefs about the probability and nature of fire risk, hazard, and the risk-reducing benefits of cooperation, owners may face difficulty rationalizing efforts to engage in potentially burdensome social relationships (Cropanzano and Mitchell 2005).

Environmental Management

This result is consistent with findings from a South-African population of HIV-positive children [ 14] and implies that in our sample, parental role requirements and contextual conditions were perceived as more burdensome than the relationship with the child as such.

BMC Psychiatry

Legal research cost recovery is administratively burdensome, it poisons relationships with clients, and it no longer pays the bills.

Huffington Post

Making compliance financially less burdensome may improve morale, relationships with local and state agencies, and ensure the economic viability of providing optimal care for children.

International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy

So with the kids gone, it seems more burdensome to stay in a bad relationship, or even one that has grown stale".

The New York Times

Active fatherhood was integral to male identities throughout this period, but it was principally through a language of burdensome duty that the significance of these relationships could be discussed with male peers and communicated intergenerationally.

History of the Family

Detroit's management focussed more on short-term profit than on quality, and the antagonistic labor-management relationship, governed by a tangle of burdensome workplace rules, seemed designed to frustrate efficiency.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "burdensome relationship", consider the specific aspect of the relationship that is causing the burden. Be specific about whether it's emotional, financial, or practical demands that make the relationship difficult.

Common error

Avoid using "burdensome" too frequently, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "difficult", "straining", or "challenging" to describe the relationship instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "burdensome relationship" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. The adjective "burdensome" describes the nature of the "relationship", indicating that it is difficult, taxing, or causes stress. As Ludwig AI states, it describes a relationship that is demanding or causes stress to one or both parties involved.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

34%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "burdensome relationship" describes a relationship characterized by difficulty, stress, or emotional strain. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable, referring to a relationship that is demanding or causes stress to one or both parties involved. While grammatically sound, its frequency is rare, suggesting that alternative phrases such as "difficult relationship" or "strained relationship" may be more commonly used. The contexts in which it appears vary, from news media and scientific literature to encyclopedic entries, indicating its applicability across different domains. When using this phrase, it's important to be specific about what makes the relationship burdensome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult relationship

Focuses on the difficulty experienced within the relationship, without necessarily emphasizing the burden.

strained relationship

Highlights the tension and pressure present in the relationship.

troubled relationship

Indicates that the relationship is experiencing problems and difficulties.

challenging relationship

Emphasizes the difficulties and obstacles that need to be overcome in the relationship.

taxing relationship

Similar to burdensome, it suggests that the relationship is draining and demanding.

oppressive relationship

Suggests a relationship where one party is dominated or controlled by the other.

tiresome relationship

Implies that the relationship is wearying and lacks energy.

demanding relationship

Highlights the high expectations and requirements placed on those involved in the relationship.

unfulfilling relationship

Indicates that the relationship does not provide satisfaction or happiness.

heavy relationship

Conveys the emotional weight and seriousness associated with the relationship.

FAQs

How can I describe a relationship that feels like a chore?

You can use the phrase "burdensome relationship" to describe a relationship that feels difficult or like a responsibility. Alternatively, consider using "difficult relationship" or "taxing relationship" to convey a similar sentiment.

What are some signs that I might be in a "burdensome relationship"?

Signs of a "burdensome relationship" include constant stress, frequent arguments, feeling drained after interactions, and a general sense of unhappiness or dissatisfaction.

Is "burdensome relationship" a formal or informal way to describe a difficult relationship?

"Burdensome relationship" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider the audience and purpose of your communication. For more formal settings, "challenging relationship" or "strained relationship" might be preferable.

What is the difference between a "burdensome relationship" and an abusive one?

A "burdensome relationship" is characterized by its difficulty and the emotional or practical demands it places on those involved. An abusive relationship involves control, manipulation, and harm. While a burdensome relationship may be emotionally draining, it doesn't necessarily involve abuse.