| onus of proof / burden of proof synonymous, however "onus" includes a slightly more negative connotation
Explanation:
I agree with the other answers that they are basically synonymous; however, "onus" includes a slightly more negative connotation of doing something that is disagreeable. Please note the following descriptions.
"Burden of proof" can, indeed, be described as "onus probandi" from Latin, meaning precisely "burden or proof." However,note the following definitions from Black's Law Dictionary:
"onus: 1. A burden; a load. 2. A disagreeable responsibility; an obligation. 3. ONUS PROBANDI"
"burden of proof. 1. A party's duty to prove a disputed assertion or charge; the burden of proof includes bot the burden of persuasion and the burden of production. Also termed onus probandi. 2. Loosely, burden of persuasin."
Now note the synonyms for both "burden" and "onus" in the Merriam Webster 11th edition:
"onus"
Main Entry:onus
Function:noun
1
Synonyms LOAD 3, burden, charge, deadweight, duty, millstone, task, tax, weight
2
Synonyms BLAME, culpability, fault, guilt
3
Synonyms STIGMA, bar sinister, black eye, blot, blur, brand, odium, slur, spot, stain
"burden"
Main Entry:burden
Function:noun
1
Synonyms LOAD 1, cargo, freight, haul, lading, payload
2
Synonyms LOAD 3, charge, deadweight, duty, millstone, onus, task, tax, weight
Hence, when stressing the obligatory nature, and highlighting the disagreeable task ahead, it might be more appropriate to use "onus of proof" rather than "burden of proof" although, other than a slighly more negative connotation with "onus" versus "burden", I believe they are synonyms.
Mike :)
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Note added at 42 mins (2004-08-12 01:26:01 GMT)
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American Heritage Dictionary
o·nus Listen: [ ns ]
n.
A difficult or disagreeable responsibility or necessity; a burden or obligation.
a. A stigma. b. Blame.
The burden of proof: The onus was on the defense attorney.
burden of proof
n. Law
The responsibility of proving a disputed charge or allegation.
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peer agreement (net): +10