millstone

[US]/'mɪlstəʊn/
[UK]/'mɪlston/
Frequency: Very High

Translation

n. a heavy burden or responsibility that is difficult to escape or overcome, likened to a millstone

Example Sentences

This job is a millstone around my neck.

My debts are a millstone round my neck.

she threatened to become a millstone round his neck.

His lazy son, who refuses to do any work, is a millstone round his neck.

She felt like a millstone around his neck.

The financial burden was a millstone that weighed heavily on the company.

Carrying the guilt was like a millstone around his heart.

The scandal became a millstone around the politician's career.

The unresolved conflict was a millstone in their relationship.

The outdated technology was a millstone dragging down the company's progress.

The negative public image became a millstone that hindered the company's growth.

The unresolved legal issues were a millstone hanging over the project.

The lack of communication was a millstone in their marriage.

The constant criticism was like a millstone on her self-esteem.

Real-world Examples

That expression is a millstone around someone's neck.

Source: VOA Slow English - Word Stories

I'd like to call asher millstone to the stand.

Source: The Good Place Season 2

For example, student debt is a millstone for many young people.

Source: VOA Slow English - Word Stories

So, we also use the word millstone to describe a serious responsibility, problem, or concern.

Source: VOA Slow English - Word Stories

The most ancient millstone was unearthed just nearby.

Source: A Bite of China Season 1

They have also unearthed fragments of various artifacts, including a millstone, bottles, and painted pottery.

Source: CRI Online March 2023 Collection

The founding fathers and mothers, modestly dressed in millstone ruffs, had given way to their children.

Source: The Power of Art - Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn

We could also say the debt is a millstone around their necks or a monkey on their backs.

Source: VOA Slow English - Word Stories

A millstone is a very large, heavy stone used for grinding things such as grain or corn.

Source: VOA Slow English - Word Stories

It's satisfying because you see the results straight away. It's not just about putting it through the millstones.

Source: PBS Interview Social Series

Popular Words

Explore frequently searched vocabulary

Download App to Unlock Full Content

Want to learn vocabulary more efficiently? Download the DictoGo app and enjoy more vocabulary memorization and review features!

Download DictoGo Now