What are the definitions of “bear on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Influence, affect.
The judge's character may well BEAR ON the final decision.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bear on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bear on is to influence or affect something. It is often used to describe how one thing has an impact on another thing, such as a decision, situation, or outcome.
What are the different verb forms of “bear on”?
| Root Verb | bear on |
| Third Person Singular Present | bears on |
| Present Participle | bearing on |
| Simple Past | bore on |
| Past Participle | borne on |
Example
Her experience will bear on the success of the project.
Example
His opinion bears on the final decision.
Example
The weather is bearing on our travel plans.
Example
The evidence bore on the outcome of the trial.
Example
The results of the study have borne on the development of new policies.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bear 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.)
Transitive verb
“bear on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
Her background bears on the decision to hire her.
Example
The new information bears on the case.
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 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
Her background bears on the decision to hire her.
Example
The new information bears on the case.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bear on”?
Bear on/upon something
To have an effect on something or be relevant to it.
Example
The new regulations will bear on the way we conduct business.
Bear on/upon someone
To have an effect on someone or be relevant to them.
Example
The decision will bear on everyone involved in the project.
Bear on/upon a subject
To be related to a particular subject or topic.
Example
Her research bears on the history of the region.
Good things to know
Does “bear on” have an informal or formal tone?
Bear on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate for use in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as academic writing or professional discussions.
