The phrase "weigh upon" is a commonly used expression that means to burden or trouble someone. The spelling of "weigh" is unique, as the "g" is silent, and it is pronounced /weɪ/. The "eigh" combination is often used to represent the long "a" sound in English words, as in "eight" or "neighbour." The word "upon" has a more straightforward spelling, with each letter representing its corresponding sound, pronounced /əˈpɒn/. Together, the phrase "weigh upon" is a complex combination of sounds that English language learners may find challenging to master.
To "weigh upon" refers to the act of burdening, oppressing, or causing emotional or mental pressure on someone or something. It is an idiomatic expression that carries a figurative meaning, typically used to describe a heavy emotional or psychological effect that something has on an individual or a situation.
When something "weighs upon" a person, it means that it causes a deep sense of concern, worry, or sadness, often leading to a feeling of being overwhelmed. The weight that is being referred to is metaphorical, illustrating the feeling of a heavy load or a cumbersome burden.
This phrase is commonly used to describe the negative impact that unpleasant or distressing circumstances, situations, or responsibilities have on someone's mental or emotional state. It can also imply a sense of guilt or regret that lingers within a person, causing them to feel weighed down.
For example, the loss of a loved one can weigh upon an individual, causing them to experience grief and sorrow. Similarly, financial troubles or serious life decisions can weigh upon someone's mind, leading to stress and anxiety. In both cases, the idea is that these emotional burdens create a heavy or oppressive feeling, affecting one's overall well-being.
In summary, "weigh upon" denotes the heavy emotional or mental burden that an individual or situation places on someone, leading to feelings of pressure, concern, or distress.
The word "weigh" comes from the Old English word "weigan", which means "to carry, move, or lift". The word "upon" comes from the Old English word "uppan", meaning "upon, on, above".
The phrase "weigh upon" combines these two words to form a figurative expression. It suggests the notion of something being burdensome or oppressive, as if it were physically weighing down on someone or something.