Basic Details
Word: Onerous
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Something that is very burdensome or difficult to handle.
Synonyms: Burdensome, heavy, difficult
Antonyms: Easy, simple, light
Idioms and Phrases
- Onerous task: A job or duty that is hard to perform. Example: "Cleaning the attic was an onerous task that took all day."
- Take on an onerous burden: To accept responsibility that is very heavy or difficult. Example: "He decided to take on the onerous burden of caring for the gardens by himself."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The onerous homework assignment made the students feel overwhelmed and anxious.
Example 2: Carrying the heavy boxes up the stairs felt like an onerous challenge for her.
Example 3: The government imposed onerous regulations that made it difficult for small businesses to thrive.
Fun Fact
The word "onerous" comes from the Latin word "onerosus," which means "burdensome." It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe tasks that are hard to bear.
Famous Quote
"When you are in a position of power, the onerous burden of responsibility weighs heavily upon you." – Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "onerous" mean?
a) Easy
b) Very burdensome
c) Fun
d) Simple
Answer: b) Very burdensome
2. Which of these is a synonym of "onerous"?
a) Light
b) Smooth
c) Burdensome
d) Joyful
Answer: c) Burdensome
3. Which sentence uses "onerous" correctly?
a) The onerous cake baked perfectly in the oven.
b) The onerous duties of the job made him rethink his career choice.
c) The flowers looked onerous in the garden.
d) The dog was very onerous when he barked.
Answer: b) The onerous duties of the job made him rethink his career choice.
4. Which idiom relates to a difficult job like "onerous"?
a) Piece of cake
b) Onerous task
c) Break the ice
d) Hit the nail on the head
Answer: b) Onerous task
5. What is the opposite of "onerous"?
a) Heavy
b) Difficult
c) Light
d) Burdensome
Answer: c) Light
