What are the definitions of “bear up under”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Cope with something difficult or stressful.
He's BEARING UP UNDER the pressure.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bear up under”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bear up under is to cope with or handle a difficult or stressful situation. It means to stay strong and not give up when facing challenges or problems.
What are the different verb forms of “bear up under”?
| Root Verb | bear up under |
| Third Person Singular Present | bears up under |
| Present Participle | bearing up under |
| Simple Past | bore up under |
| Past Participle | borne up under |
Example
She always bears up under the stress of her job.
Example
He bears up under the pressure of his exams.
Example
They are bearing up under the difficult circumstances.
Example
She bore up under the pain of her injury.
Example
He had borne up under the weight of his responsibilities.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bear up under”?
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 up under” 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
She bore up under the pressure.
Example
They bear up under the stress of their jobs.
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 up under” 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
She bore up under the pressure.
Example
They bear up under the stress of their jobs.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bear up under”?
Bear up under adversity
To remain strong and resilient in the face of difficult situations or challenges.
Example
Despite the setbacks, she bore up under adversity and achieved her goals.
Bear up under pressure
To cope with or handle the stress or strain of a demanding situation.
Example
He bears up under pressure and always performs well in high-stakes situations.
Bear up under criticism
To remain strong and not be discouraged by negative feedback or disapproval.
Example
She bore up under criticism and continued to pursue her dreams.
Good things to know
Does “bear up under” have an informal or formal tone?
Bear up under 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 settings, such as in professional or academic discussions.
