What are the definitions of “bear down on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Move towards.
She spotted him on the other side of the room and BORE DOWN ON him.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bear down on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bear down on is to move towards something or someone, often in a determined or threatening manner. It can be used to describe a person, vehicle, or even a storm approaching a specific location.
What are the different verb forms of “bear down on”?
| Root Verb | bear down on |
| Third Person Singular Present | bears down on |
| Present Participle | bearing down on |
| Simple Past | bore down on |
| Past Participle | borne down on |
Example
The storm is bearing down on the coastline.
Example
The car bears down on the pedestrian crossing the street.
Example
The angry boss is bearing down on the employee who made a mistake.
Example
The dog bore down on the intruder in the yard.
Example
The hurricane had borne down on the island, causing massive destruction.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bear down on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“bear down on” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The train bore down on the station.
Example
The athlete bore down on the finish line.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“bear down on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The train bore down on the station.
Example
The athlete bore down on the finish line.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bear down on”?
Bear down
To exert pressure or force, especially when giving birth.
Example
During labor, the doctor told her to bear down and push.
Bear down on (a task)
To focus intently and work hard on a task.
Example
With the deadline approaching, she bore down on her assignment.
Good things to know
Does “bear down on” have an informal or formal tone?
Bear down on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or presentations.
