The phrasal verb "weigh on" is predominantly used in both informal and slightly formal contexts, though it is more common in day-to-day conversation than in official documentation or academic writing. It means to cause someone emotional or mental distress or burden, as in 'The decision weighs on me.' This verb is often used to express personal feelings of anxiety, worry, or stress that are causing a disturbance in one's peace of mind or decision-making process. It is regularly employed across various discussions, such as personal relationships, business situations, or in describing the mental state of individuals coping with difficult choices or guilt. While it is not typically used in rigid professional contexts, it can appear in less formal articles or opinion pieces.
B1
Intermediate
1. To be a source of worry, stress, or pressure, causing someone to feel anxious or burdened.
The decision to leave her job weighed on her mind for weeks.
His financial troubles have been weighing on him heavily.
The responsibility of leading the team was beginning to weigh on her.
The upcoming exam results kept weighing on his thoughts.
The guilt from the argument continued to weigh on his conscience.