too onerous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'too onerous' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe a situation that is burdened with obligations or unpleasant demands that are too difficult or too demanding to fulfill. For example: "I had to give up my job because the commute was too onerous for my health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's nothing too onerous.

The Guardian

conditions were seen as too onerous.

The New York Times

According to Validus, that proposal is too onerous.

The New York Times

Yet even this is now deemed too onerous.

The Guardian

"Midnight's Children" too onerous in the 552-page original?

The New York Times

We're trying not to make these requirements too onerous.

The New York Times

So either American manufacturing requirements are too onerous, or patients around the world deserve higher standards.

The Economist

"The terms the D.O.J. demanded were too onerous," said John Sargent, its chief executive.

The New York Times

For some borrowers, even a reduced payment is too onerous, leading to redefault.

The New York Times

Yet some students and college counselors complained that the questions were too onerous.

The New York Times

Although payroll taxes were reduced under Mr Menem, they are still too onerous.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing regulations or requirements, use "too onerous" to suggest that they are excessively burdensome and may hinder compliance or effectiveness.

Common error

While "too onerous" is widely applicable, consider using more colloquial alternatives like "too much" or "too difficult" in informal conversations to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "too onerous" functions primarily as an adjectival modifier. It describes a noun, indicating that something is excessively burdensome or difficult to bear. Ludwig examples showcase its usage with various nouns such as "requirements", "conditions", or "terms".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "too onerous" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe something excessively burdensome or difficult. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively conveys disapproval or concern about overly demanding requirements or conditions. It's most frequently encountered in News & Media, Academia, and Formal & Business contexts. While appropriate for formal settings, consider using simpler alternatives in casual conversations. Remember to avoid overusing it in informal contexts. When you need to express that something poses an unreasonable challenge, "too onerous" is a reliable choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unreasonably burdensome

Similar to "excessively burdensome" but stresses the lack of justification for the burden.

excessively burdensome

Focuses more on the burden aspect, implying a heavy load or responsibility.

excessively demanding

Highlights the excessiveness of the demands placed on someone or something.

unacceptably burdensome

Focuses on the unacceptability of the burden imposed.

unduly demanding

Highlights the excessive requirements or expectations involved.

overly taxing

Emphasizes the strain or drain caused by the task or requirement.

inordinately taxing

Stresses that burden exceeds the normal or appropriate limits.

prohibitively difficult

Indicates that the level of difficulty is so high as to prevent success.

unjustifiably difficult

Emphasizes the lack of a good reason for the difficulty.

overwhelmingly difficult

Highlights that the high level of difficulty causes a sense of being overwhelmed.

FAQs

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

You can use "too onerous" to describe rules, tasks, or conditions that are excessively burdensome or difficult. For example: "The regulations were "too onerous" for small businesses to comply with".

What are some alternatives to saying "too onerous"?

Alternatives include "excessively burdensome", "unduly demanding", or "overly taxing". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "too onerous" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in academic, legal, or business contexts. It conveys a clear and precise meaning of excessive burden or difficulty.

What makes something "too onerous"?

Something is "too onerous" when the effort, cost, or difficulty required to complete a task or meet a requirement is disproportionate or unreasonable, creating a significant burden.