How to Say "burden" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “burden” is “carga” — use 'carga' when referring to a literal weight, a physical load, or a figurative responsibility, duty, or workload..
English → Spanish
carga
/KAR-gah//ˈkaɾ.ɣa/
nounB2general
Use 'carga' when referring to a literal weight, a physical load, or a figurative responsibility, duty, or workload.
Examples
La carga de trabajo es insoportable este mes.
The workload (burden) is unbearable this month.
Ella sintió una gran carga de culpa después del accidente.
She felt a great burden of guilt after the accident.
cruz
/krooz//kɾuθ/
nounB2general
Use 'cruz' to describe a burden as a significant personal hardship, affliction, or a difficult situation one must endure.
Examples
Cada persona lleva su propia cruz en la vida.
Every person carries their own cross (burden) in life.
Su enfermedad fue una cruz muy pesada para toda la familia.
His illness was a very heavy cross (burden) for the whole family.
Carga vs. Cruz
The most common mistake is using 'cruz' for any kind of responsibility or duty. Remember, 'cruz' implies a more personal, deeply felt hardship or suffering, like a cross to bear. 'Carga' is more general for loads, duties, and responsibilities.
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