encumber

• Verbe utilisé pour désigner l'action de charger, d'alourdir ou de gêner quelqu'un ou quelque chose, souvent par un poids ou une obligation.

A verb used to indicate the act of burdening, weighing down, or hindering someone or something, often with a heavy load or obligation.

1. To weigh down or burdenC1formal

   To make it difficult for someone or something to move or function by adding a heavy load or obstacle.

   encombrer, alourdir

   • The hikers were encumbered by their heavy backpacks.
   • The company is encumbered by a large amount of debt.
   • She felt encumbered by the strict rules of the institution.

   Synonymesburdenhamperimpedeloadobstructoverloadsaddletaxweigh down

   Antonymesaidassistdisencumbereasefacilitatefreehelpliberatelightenunburden

2. To hinder or impedeC1formal

   To obstruct or slow down progress, movement, or action.

   entraver

   • The new regulations encumber the development of small businesses.
   • His lack of experience encumbered his ability to make quick decisions.
   • The thick mud encumbered the wheels of the cart.

   Synonymesblockburdenconstraincumberhamperimpedeobstructretardslowtrammelweigh down

   Antonymesaidassistexpeditefacilitatefurtherhelp