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3. a cross to bear

a cross to bear

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a cross (somebody has) to bear

  (British & Australian) also a cross (somebody has) to carry (American & Australian)

an unpleasant situation or responsibility that you must accept because you cannot change it

Usage notes: In the past, criminals were made to carry crosses as a form of punishment.

Someone has to look after mother and because I live the closest it's a cross I have to bear.

See also: bear, cross