bearing

[ˈbɛrɪŋ]

bearing Definition

• 1. the way in which a person conducts or carries themselves, especially in terms of their attitude and demeanor
• 2. a part of a machine that supports another part and allows it to rotate
• 3. direction or orientation, especially with respect to points of the compass

Using bearing: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "bearing" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  She has a confident bearing that commands respect.

• Example

  The bearing of the machine was damaged and needed to be replaced.

• Example

  The map shows the bearing of the ship as it travels northward.

bearing Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for bearing

• demeanor
• attitude
• conduct
• carriage
• posture

Antonyms for bearing

• misconduct
• misbehavior

Idioms Using bearing

• have a bearing on

  to be relevant or related to something

  Example

  The new evidence could have a bearing on the outcome of the trial.

• lose one's bearings

  to become disoriented or confused

  Example

  After wandering around the city for hours, I completely lost my bearings and had no idea where I was.

• get one's bearings

  to become oriented or familiar with one's surroundings

  Example

  After arriving in a new city, it's important to take some time to get your bearings and figure out where everything is.

Phrases with bearing

• take a bearing on

  to determine the direction of something using a compass or other navigational tool

  Example

  We need to take a bearing on the North Star to find our way home.

• bearings

  one's position or situation, especially in relation to others or to one's surroundings

  Example

  After losing his job, he struggled to get his bearings and find a new direction in life.

• keep one's bearings

  to remain oriented or aware of one's surroundings

  Example

  Even in the dark, she was able to keep her bearings and find her way back to camp.

Origins of bearing

from Old English 'beran', meaning 'to carry'

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Summary: bearing in Brief

The term 'bearing' [ˈbɛrɪŋ] refers to a person's attitude and demeanor, as well as a machine part that supports rotation. It can also denote direction or orientation, such as the bearing of a ship. Phrases like 'take a bearing on' and 'keep one's bearings' relate to navigation and situational awareness, while idioms like 'have a bearing on' and 'lose one's bearings' refer to relevance and confusion.