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

have a bearing on, lose one's bearings, get one's bearings

take a bearing on, bearings, keep one's bearings

Formal and Informal Expressions of bearing

In different contexts, you can replace 'bearing' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'demeanor, orientation' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'attitude, way of carrying oneself' is a commonplace synonym.

bearing: Explore its Definition & Usage

bearing Definition

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

Antonyms for bearing

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.