B2verb1K

Bear

UK /["/beə(r)/","/beəz/","/bɔː(r)/","/bɔːn/","/ˈbeərɪŋ/"]/US /["/ber/","/berz/","/bɔːr/","/bɔːrn/","/ˈberɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to be able to accept and deal with something unpleasant

In simple words: a large wild animal with thick fur that lives in the forest

Examples

  • I can't bear the thought of losing my best friend.
  • Please bear with me while I try to fix this issue.
  • The weight of the responsibility was too much for him to bear.
  • She couldn't bear to watch the horror movie alone.
  • We will have to bear the consequences of our actions.

Usage notes

Use 'bear' when talking about the animal. Avoid using it in a metaphorical sense unless context is clear.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'bear' hug, big and warm like the animal.

Collocations

  • be able to
  • can
  • be unable to

Synonyms

  • grizzly
  • panda
  • polar bear
  • koala
  • black bear

Antonyms

  • yield
  • surrender

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'bear' as a verb meaning to carry with the animal.
  • Using the wrong article, e.g., 'a bear' instead of 'the bear' when referring to a specific bear.