Differences between bear down and bear up under
Bear down means to focus intensely on a task or to apply pressure to achieve a goal, while bear up under means to endure or withstand a difficult situation or hardship.
Meanings and Definitions: bear down vs bear up under
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Bear down
- 1To approach quickly and forcefully.
I could see a police car bearing down on us.
- 2To exert pressure or force.
It’s a natural instinct for a woman giving birth to bear down.
- 3To put pressure or weight on someone or something.
These two things seemed to bear down on me with all the weight of a personal failure.
Bear up under
- 1Cope with something difficult or stressful.
He's BEARING UP UNDER the pressure.
Usage Examples: bear down, bear up under in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
bear down
Example
When lifting heavy objects, it's important to bear down and use your legs.
Example
She bears down on the pencil when she writes, causing it to break easily.
bear up under
Example
She always bears up under the stress of her job.
Example
He bears up under the pressure of his exams.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Bear down
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Bear up under
stand up to
To resist or confront a difficult or threatening situation or person.
Example
She had to stand up to her boss's unfair treatment and demand equal treatment.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “bear”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in bear down vs bear up under: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: bear down or bear up under?
In everyday conversation, bear down is more commonly used than bear up under. Bear down is often used in sports, academic, or work contexts to describe intense concentration or effort. On the other hand, bear up under is less common and usually used in situations where someone is facing a challenge or hardship.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of bear down and bear up under
Both bear down and bear up under are informal phrases that can be used in casual conversations. However, bear up under may sound slightly more formal because it's often used in serious or emotional situations.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of bear down and bear up under
The tone of bear down is usually determined by the context. It can convey a sense of determination, urgency, or pressure. In contrast, bear up under often carries a tone of resilience, strength, or perseverance.
