onerous responsibility

USAGE SUMMARY

"onerous responsibility" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a duty or obligation that is burdensome or difficult to bear. An example: "Taking care of the family's finances became an onerous responsibility for her." Alternative expressions include "heavy burden" and "difficult obligation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

And it is an onerous responsibility, to say the very least.

The New York Times - Books

It does not need to be only an onerous responsibility," he says.

The Guardian - Books

They were simply aware that over their full and busy lives hung the possibility that affection might plunge them into a very onerous responsibility.

The Guardian - Books

The OPCW drector-general, Ambassador Ahmet Üzümcü, added: I am aware of the onerous responsibility that the international community is placing on our shoulders.

The Guardian

On the other hand is the "onerous responsibility" of having built a weapon that could destroy all life and then actually using it.

The New York Times - Science

"By electing me to preside over this august body, with full knowledge of the onerous responsibility that lies ahead, I humbly accept your collective decision," Mugabe told the AU summit in Addis Ababa.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The prosecutor said the crown respected the work of firearms officers who had "onerous responsibilities".

The Guardian

However, many of the jobs advertised demand a high degree of knowledge and onerous responsibilities.

The Guardian

I think organisations like the RSC and the National have onerous responsibilities right now to look at how we really do connect across the country.

Independent

Are they simply less ambitious, less excited by the idea of limitless (albeit first-class) travel, late nights and the onerous responsibilities imposed by mounting regulation?

The Economist

The pictures are, as has become traditional in photographs of Cameron on holiday or weekenders, relaxing from his onerous responsibilities, a bit embarrassing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "onerous responsibility", ensure that the context clearly indicates who bears the responsibility and why it is burdensome. For instance, "The "onerous responsibility" of caring for aging parents often falls disproportionately on women" provides context.

Common error

Avoid using "onerous responsibility" when a simpler, less dramatic phrase would suffice. Using it for routine tasks can sound hyperbolic and diminish its impact. For example, saying "The "onerous responsibility" of checking emails" is excessive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "onerous responsibility" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "onerous" modifies the noun "responsibility". It serves to describe and characterize a particular duty or obligation as burdensome or difficult. As Ludwig confirms, this usage is correct and frequent.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

14%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "onerous responsibility" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that describes a duty or obligation that is burdensome or difficult to bear. As Ludwig highlights, this phrase is typically found in news media and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, it is important to ensure that the context clearly indicates who bears the responsibility and why it is burdensome. While alternatives such as "heavy burden" and "difficult obligation" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Avoid overuse to maintain its impact, and be specific about the nature of the responsibility for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heavy burden

Focuses more on the weight or difficulty of the obligation.

difficult obligation

Highlights the challenging nature of the required task or duty.

weighty task

Emphasizes the significance and impact of the job.

demanding duty

Stresses the high level of effort and commitment required.

arduous undertaking

Implies a long and strenuous effort is necessary.

challenging commitment

Highlights the difficulty in upholding the pledge or promise.

taxing endeavor

Suggests the activity will be physically or mentally draining.

strenuous obligation

Implies considerable effort and energy are needed to fulfill the duty.

crushing burden

Conveys a sense of being overwhelmed by the obligation.

grim duty

Emphasizes the unpleasant or somber nature of the task.

FAQs

How can I use "onerous responsibility" in a sentence?

You can use "onerous responsibility" to describe a duty that is burdensome or difficult to manage. For example: "Taking care of the family's finances became an "onerous responsibility" for her".

What are some alternatives to "onerous responsibility"?

You can use alternatives like "heavy burden", "difficult obligation", or "weighty task" depending on the specific context.

What makes a responsibility "onerous"?

A responsibility is considered "onerous" when it involves significant effort, difficulty, or stress, often due to its complexity, time commitment, or potential negative consequences.

Is it appropriate to use "onerous responsibility" in formal writing?

Yes, "onerous responsibility" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing significant or challenging duties. It conveys a sense of seriousness and importance.