Differences between bear down and hunker down
Bear down usually means to focus all your energy and effort on something, especially when it's difficult or challenging. Hunker down, on the other hand, means to take shelter or prepare for a difficult situation.
Meanings and Definitions: bear down vs hunker down
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.
Hunker down
- 1Settle in a place as comfortably as possible to stay there.
The troops HUNKERED DOWN in the building.
Usage Examples: bear down, hunker down 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.
hunker down
Example
During the storm, the family hunkered down in the basement.
Example
She hunkers down in her room to study for the exam.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Bear down
put one's nose to the grindstone
To work hard and diligently on a task or project.
Example
He knew he had to put his nose to the grindstone if he wanted to finish the project on time.
focus one's efforts
To concentrate all of one's energy and attention on a specific task or goal.
Example
He decided to focus his efforts on improving his public speaking skills by practicing every day.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hunker down
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 hunker down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: bear down or hunker down?
In daily conversation, people use hunker down more often than bear down. This is because hunker down is used in a variety of situations such as preparing for a storm or settling in for a long period of work. Bear down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about focusing on a task or goal. So, while both phrases are used, hunker down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of bear down and hunker down
Bear down and hunker down are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of bear down and hunker down
The tone of bear down and hunker down can differ based on context. Bear down often carries a determined or serious tone when related to achieving a goal or overcoming an obstacle, while hunker down typically has a cautious and prepared tone, especially when referring to taking shelter or preparing for a difficult situation.
