weighing on

USAGE SUMMARY

"weighing on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe a feeling of being overwhelmed or burdened by a situation: The worries of the upcoming exam are weighing on me.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Unfortunately, one issue has been weighing on our family: homework.

Huffington Post

Those macroeconomic conditions are weighing on stocks.

The New York Times

"It is weighing on the market".

The New York Times

The burden is weighing on him.

The New York Times - Sports

The restructuring is weighing on earnings.

The New York Times

It's always weighing on my mind.

The New York Times

"It was weighing on him," he said.

The New York Times

But something else is weighing on stocks.

The New York Times

"Enron is weighing on it, too.

The New York Times

It's not, like, all weighing on me".

The Guardian - Music

The persistent criticism and scrutiny are clearly weighing on Thomas.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "weighing on" to express a sense of burden or concern caused by a specific issue or situation. It effectively conveys the emotional impact of a problem. For example, "The stress of the project is weighing on me."

Common error

Avoid using "weighing on" to describe literal weight or physical burdens. The phrase is best suited for conveying emotional or metaphorical weight. For example, instead of saying "The box is weighing on the table", use "The box is heavy on the table".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weighing on" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a verb or noun. It indicates that something is causing a burden, pressure, or concern. The Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "weighing on" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe the emotional or psychological burden caused by a particular issue. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When writing, use "weighing on" to express a sense of burden or concern, and avoid using it in literal, physical contexts. Alternatives like "burdening", "troubling", and "bothering" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey. Keep in mind that its widespread use across reputable sources indicates its acceptability in both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

burdening

This alternative refers to the act of imposing a heavy load or responsibility. It shifts the focus slightly from the emotional impact to the act of loading itself. It's more direct and less idiomatic.

oppressing

This term suggests a more forceful and negative impact, implying a sense of being crushed or subdued by something. It adds a stronger sense of negativity.

troubling

This alternative implies a source of worry or anxiety, focusing on the mental or emotional disturbance caused. It is less intense than "weighing on".

preying on

Suggests a predatory or exploitative relationship, implying something is taking advantage of a vulnerability. It adds a negative connotation of exploitation.

bothering

Indicates a mild form of annoyance or concern. This is a weaker alternative, suitable for less serious situations.

nagging at

Emphasizes a persistent and irritating concern, highlighting the repetitive nature of the worry. It focuses on the persistent, irritating nature of the concern.

vexing

Implies causing irritation or annoyance, highlighting the frustrating nature of the issue. It's a more formal and less common alternative.

plaguing

This indicates a persistent and troublesome issue, often causing distress or suffering. It suggests a more significant and ongoing problem.

pressing on

This alternative suggests the action of exerting force or influence, often implying a sense of urgency or insistence. It alters the focus to a driving or compelling influence.

impacting

Indicates a direct effect or influence, often implying a significant change or consequence. It is more neutral and less emotionally charged.

FAQs

How can I use "weighing on" in a sentence?

You can use "weighing on" to express a sense of burden or concern caused by a specific issue. For example, "The financial crisis is "weighing on" the minds of many". It implies that something is causing stress or anxiety.

What's the difference between "weighing on" and "burdening"?

"Weighing on" typically refers to a persistent worry or concern that affects one's mental state, while "burdening" suggests a more direct imposition of responsibility or load. "The decision is "weighing on" me" implies emotional stress, whereas "The task is "burdening" me" suggests a heavy workload.

What can I say instead of "weighing on"?

You can use alternatives like "troubling", "bothering", or "plaguing" depending on the context. For instance, "The issue is "troubling" me" or "The question is "bothering" me".

Is "weighing on" formal or informal?

"Weighing on" is considered a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in news articles, business reports, and everyday conversations to convey a sense of burden or concern.