belasten
Translation
to burden, to strain, to charge (an account), to incriminate
Examples
Die Arbeit belastet ihn sehr.
The work is a great strain on him.
Wir sollten die Umwelt nicht belasten.
We shouldn't pollute the environment.
Sein Konto wurde mit 100 Euro belastet.
His account was charged with 100 euros.
Die Aussage belastet den Angeklagten.
The testimony incriminates the defendant.
Grammar Patterns
((j-n/et4)) to burden/strain sb./sth. The work is a great strain on him.
((j-n/et4)) ((mit+3)) to burden sb./sth. with sth. He burdens his parents with his problems.
Similar Words
Synonyms: beanspruchen, strapazieren; Antonyms: entlasten, erleichtern
Etymology
From the prefix 'be-' and 'Last' (load, burden). It literally means 'to put a load on' something or someone.
Memory Tips
Think of 'Last' as in 'Lastwagen' (lorry/truck). 'Belasten' is the action of putting that load ('Last') onto something.