Bearing With: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
May 4, 2024

"Bearing with" is a phrase that denotes patience, tolerance, or endurance in the face of difficulties, annoyances, or discomforts. When asked to "bear with" another person or situation, it implies a request for patience or understanding as one goes through a challenging, slow, or inconvenient process. This phrase is often used when a delay or difficulty is acknowledged, and the speaker seeks the listener's continued patience or tolerance.

In short:

  • It's a request for patience or understanding during a difficult or slow process.
  • It's used to acknowledge and appreciate someone's tolerance in the face of inconveniences.

What Does "Bearing With" Mean?

"Bearing with" refers to demonstrating patience, tolerance, or endurance during a challenging or inconvenient situation. The phrase is often used when the speaker is aware that they are imposing a difficulty or delay on someone else and asks for continued patience. It acknowledges the inconvenience while expressing gratitude for the other person's understanding. The phrase can be used in various contexts, including personal interactions, professional settings, and public speaking.

More about the phrase's meaning:

  • It implies an understanding that the situation is not ideal and may be causing discomfort or inconvenience.
  • "Bearing with" is often used as a polite request or acknowledgment in social and professional interactions.
  • The phrase can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.
  • It is often accompanied by expressions of gratitude for the patience or understanding being shown.
  • "Bearing with" someone or something is typically seen as a positive, empathetic behavior.

Where Does "Bearing With" Come From?

The phrase "bearing with" comes from the verb "bear," which has several meanings, including to carry, endure, or tolerate. The use of "bear" in the sense of enduring or tolerating dates back to Old English. The phrase "bearing with" combines this meaning of "bear" with the preposition "with," indicating a sense of accompaniment or shared experience in endurance or tolerance.

10 Examples of "Bearing With" in Sentences

To help you understand the use of this phrase, here are some examples:

  • Thank you for bearing with me while I resolve this technical issue.
  • I appreciate you bearing with me regarding the delay in the delivery.
  • She asked her audience to bear with her as she searched for the correct slide in her presentation.
  • He appreciated his friends bearing with him through his lengthy recovery process.
  • Please bear with us while we undergo renovations.
  • The teacher thanked the students for bearing with her during the unexpected drill.
  • Kidding aside, bearing with each other's quirks and idiosyncrasies in our friend group has strengthened our bond.
  • Bearing with the mundane task of doing the dishes every evening has become unexpectedly therapeutic for me.
  • She was singing your praises to everyone. She said you were very kind and helpful for bearing with her during her difficult time.
  • Long time no hear. How have you been? I hope you are bearing with the pandemic and staying safe.

Examples of "Bearing With" in Pop Culture

The phrase is also seen in various forms of pop culture, particularly in scenarios where patience or understanding is a theme.

Let's look at some examples:

  • In a reflective moment from the movie discussion guide by Heather MacFadyen, the author shares: "Thank you for bearing with me and maybe these words will be helpful to you at this time. I also understand our world is mess as you read..." 
  • The song "Bearing with It" by Shitty Halfpipe explores themes of perseverance and coping. Released in 2020, it provides a musical expression of enduring through difficult times.
  • A discussion on the community forum for Firecore regarding TV show sorting mentioned: "Thanks for bearing with me." This interaction touches on the patience required when navigating technical issues in media organizations.
  • The New York Times article titled "Bearing With the Present While Recalling the Past" delves into the dynamics of contemporary politics through the lens of historical context. This piece discusses the importance of historical awareness in understanding current political climates.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Bearing With"

Here are some alternative phrases that express the same idea:

  • Putting up with
  • Enduring
  • Tolerating
  • Patience with
  • Sticking it out
  • Humoring me
  • Being patient
  • Staying with me
  • Hanging in there
  • Showing understanding

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Bearing With":

  • What does "bearing with" mean?

"Bearing with" means showing patience or tolerance during a difficult, tedious, or inconvenient situation.

  • Is "bearing with" a formal expression?

It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, often as a polite request or acknowledgment.

  • How do I use "bearing with" in a sentence?

You can use it when asking for patience: "Thank you for bearing with me while I fix this error."

  • Does "bearing with" always imply a negative situation?

Not necessarily negative, but it often refers to situations that require extra patience or tolerance.

  • Can "bearing with" be used in professional settings?

Yes, it's quite common in professional settings, especially when acknowledging delays or complications.

  • Is "bearing with" the same as "putting up with"?

They are similar, but "putting up with" can sometimes have a more negative or begrudging connotation.

  • What is the origin of "bearing with"?

It comes from the verb "bear," meaning to endure or tolerate, combined with the preposition "with."

  • Can "bearing with" be considered a virtue?

Yes, patience and tolerance, as implied by "bearing with," are often considered virtuous qualities.

  • Is "bearing with" a common phrase?

Yes, it's a common phrase in both spoken and written English.

  • Are there cultural differences in the use of "bearing with"?

While the concept of patience is universal, the expression "bearing with" is more common in English-speaking cultures.

Final Thoughts About "Bearing With"

The phrase "bearing with" is a courteous and empathetic way of acknowledging someone's patience or tolerance in less-than-ideal situations. It reflects understanding the inconvenience or difficulty imposed on others and is a polite way of expressing gratitude for their patience. This phrase is versatile and can be used in various contexts, from everyday life to professional environments.

To recap:

  • It's a polite request for or acknowledgment of patience and understanding.
  • Used in various contexts to show appreciation for someone's tolerance of inconvenience or delay.
  • Reflects empathy and respect for the challenges others are facing.
  • It's a phrase that reinforces the value of patience and endurance in difficult circumstances.

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook. Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

U.S Dictionary is the premier dictionary about the English language as used in the United States of America.
Copyright © 2024 - U.S. Dictionary
Privacy Policy
magnifier