bear up
Definition
Verb: - To endure a difficult situation with courage, resilience, or a degree of cheerfulness; to remain strong or withstand pressure without collapsing emotionally or physically.
Usage
This phrasal verb is used to describe how someone manages or copes with hardship, stress, or emotional pain. It often implies a conscious effort to maintain strength and not give in to despair. It is typically followed by "under" to specify the source of the strain.
Examples
- Despite the terrible news, she is bearing up remarkably well.
- He had to bear up under the constant criticism from his superiors.
- It's hard, but we must bear up and continue for the sake of the children.
Advanced Usage
- The verb can be used reflexively, though this is less common: "He bore himself up through the ordeal with great dignity."
- It can be used in the imperative form as an encouragement: "Bear up! Things will get better."
Variants and Related Words
- Bearing (n): One's manner of enduring or conducting oneself, e.g., "her dignified bearing throughout the crisis."
- Stoic (adj/n): Related in meaning, describing someone who endures pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining.
Synonyms
- Endure
- Withstand
- Cope
- Hold up
- Soldier on
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Hold up: Similar meaning of enduring or remaining strong under pressure. ("How is he holding up after the accident?")
- Keep up: To maintain one's spirits or a standard. ("Keep up your courage!")
Related Idioms
- Keep a stiff upper lip: To not show emotion when faced with difficulty. (This British idiom is closely related to "bear up.")
- Grin and bear it: To endure an unpleasant situation without complaining.
Verb
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endure cheerfully
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She bore up under the enormous strain
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