Albatross Meaning in English
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Definition
An albatross is a very large sea bird with long wings that lives mainly in the Southern Ocean. In figurative English, it can also mean a problem that makes you feel heavy or held back.
Usage & Nuances
Literally a bird, but commonly appears in literature (notably in 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner') to mean a psychological burden or guilt. The figurative use: 'an albatross around your neck' means a difficult problem or responsibility you can't escape. Rare in casual speech; more common in writing or formal speech.
Example Sentences
The poem speaks of the albatross as a symbol of bad luck.
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Dealing with debt can feel like having an albatross you can’t get rid of.
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An albatross can fly for hours without stopping.
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The wings of an albatross are very long.
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We saw an albatross at the ocean today.
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After his mistake, guilt became an albatross around his neck.
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