Final answer:
The word 'weight' refers to the measure of heaviness or mass but can also be used metaphorically to mean a burden or responsibility. All provided options can metaphorically relate to weight; however, the term 'load' is the closest in meaning to the physical sense of weight.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word "weight" can have multiple connotations, particularly in the English language. It can refer to the measure of the heaviness or mass of someone or something, or it can be used metaphorically to describe a burden or responsibility. In the context of multiple-choice options given a) burden, b) load, c) millstone, d) onus, all words can metaphorically match the word "weight" in its figurative sense. However, to best assist students with understanding concepts using relevant examples:
- Burden implies a heavy load that someone carries emotionally or figuratively.
- Load is a quantity that can be measured in weight, much like the physical weight of an object.
- A millstone is a heavy stone used in a mill, but it can also represent a heavy and inescapable responsibility.
- Onus is a legal or moral responsibility, akin to the figurative weight of carrying an obligation.
All these options are related to the concept of weight but the closest in meaning to the physical heaviness or mass (as measured in ounces, pounds, and tons) would typically be 'load' (option b).