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encumbrance

Encumbrance (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ɪnˈkʌmbr(ə)ns/

What does encumbrance mean?

Something that restricts or hinders the free use or disposal of something.
"The strict regulations were an encumbrance for the small business."

Detailed Meaning of Encumbrance

It can be used to describe a wide range of things, including financial obligations, legal restrictions, or physical objects that impede movement or progress. For example, a mortgage on a property can be considered an encumbrance, as it restricts the owner's ability to sell or dispose of the property until the mortgage is paid off. Another example would be a legal restriction on the use of land, such as a conservation easement, which can be considered an encumbrance on the landowner's ability to develop the property.

In general, the term implies that there is something that restricts or hinders the free use or disposal of something, whether it's a financial obligation, a legal restriction or a physical object, and that it can impede movement or progress.

Example Sentences for Encumbrance

1. The mortgage on the property was an encumbrance that made it difficult to sell.
2. The heavy suitcase was an encumbrance as he walked through the airport.
3. The debt was an encumbrance that weighed heavily on the company.
4. The legal dispute was an encumbrance that delayed the project.
5. The outdated technology was an encumbrance that slowed down the company's progress.
6. The lack of resources was an encumbrance for the team's work.

Origin and Etymology of Encumbrance

The noun 'encumbrance' has its roots in Old French, where it was spelled as 'encombrance,' and it can be traced back to the Latin word 'incumbrare.' In Latin, 'in' signifies 'in,' and 'cumbra' relates to 'a heap' or 'a burden.' Therefore, the etymology of 'encumbrance' conveys the idea of something that lies within or on top of a heap, creating a burden or hindrance. Over time, the term evolved to describe anything that restricts or hinders the free use or disposal of something, emphasizing the obstructive nature of the object or concept in question. This etymology underscores the notion of an impediment or hindrance that interferes with the smooth functioning or movement of things, aligning with the modern usage of 'encumbrance.'

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun encumbrance:

assistance

help

aid

hindrance

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Encumbrance

1. The poor health was an encumbrance that limited his ability to work.
2. The bad reputation was an encumbrance that made it hard to attract customers.
3. The lack of support was an encumbrance for the individual's success.
4. The strict deadline was an encumbrance that made it hard to finish the task on time.
5. The limited budget was an encumbrance for the organization's growth.
6. Excessive paperwork can be an encumbrance to efficiency.
7. Debt can be a significant financial encumbrance.
8. Emotional baggage can be a heavy encumbrance in relationships.
9. The legal process can sometimes feel like an encumbrance.
10. Old equipment can become an encumbrance to productivity.
11. Redundant rules can be an encumbrance to progress.
12. Clear communication can help reduce workplace encumbrances.
13. Outdated technology can be an encumbrance to innovation.
14. Complex regulations often serve as an encumbrance to small businesses.
15. Emotional trauma can be an encumbrance to mental well-being.
16. Bureaucratic hurdles can create an encumbrance in government.
17. Legal disputes can be a significant encumbrance to a company.
18. Aging infrastructure can be an encumbrance to urban development.
19. Personal biases can be an encumbrance to fair decision-making.
20. Environmental degradation is an encumbrance to future generations.
21. Obsolete policies can be an encumbrance to progress.
22. Technological glitches can create an encumbrance in daily life.
23. Financial burdens can be a heavy encumbrance on families.
24. Inefficient processes can be an encumbrance in organizations.
25. Regulatory complexities can serve as an encumbrance to international trade.