I bear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I bear" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when expressing the act of carrying, enduring, or having something, often in a metaphorical sense. For example: "I bear the weight of my responsibilities." Alternative expressions include "I carry" and "I endure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I bear that same grief.

The New York Times

And the things I bear.

The New Yorker

Anyway, I bear a grudge.

The New Yorker

"Well, I bear responsibility.

The Guardian - Arts

That is why I bear witness.

The New York Times

I bear no malice toward your people.

The New York Times

But fear not, I bear glad tidings.

The Guardian - Books

You can't handle the truth I bear.

The New Yorker

"I bear no malice towards anyone".

The New York Times

"I bear no malice against him.

The Guardian

"I bear no responsibility for this.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I bear", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you mean to carry something physically, endure a hardship, or bear responsibility for something. Clarity is key.

Common error

Avoid using "I bear" in overly casual contexts where a simpler verb like "have" or "carry" would be more appropriate. "I bear" often implies a sense of weight or significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I bear" primarily functions as a verb phrase where "bear" is a transitive verb taking a direct object (explicit or implicit). It signifies the act of carrying, enduring, or being responsible for something. Ludwig examples show varied usage, aligning with its versatile nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

6%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I bear" is a versatile verb phrase used to express carrying, enduring, or taking responsibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in news and media contexts. While it is a common phrase, it is important to consider the connotation of weight or significance associated with it, choosing it carefully to match the intended tone and meaning. Consider alternatives such as "I carry" or "I shoulder" to avoid overly formal or dramatic phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I carry

Emphasizes the act of physically or metaphorically holding or transporting something.

I am responsible for

Directly indicates accountability for something.

I shoulder

Highlights the act of taking on a burden or responsibility.

I assume

Focuses on accepting or taking on a role, responsibility, or task.

I endure

Stresses the act of withstanding or tolerating something difficult or painful.

I experience

Highlights the act of undergoing or feeling something.

I harbor

Suggests holding onto a feeling or thought, often negative.

I convey

Focuses on communicating or transmitting something.

I sustain

Highlights maintaining or supporting something.

I undergo

Emphasizes the experience of going through a process or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "I bear" in a sentence?

You can use "I bear" to express carrying a burden, responsibility, or emotion. For example, "I bear the weight of their expectations", or "I bear witness to the truth".

What can I say instead of "I bear"?

You can use alternatives like "I carry", "I shoulder", or "I assume" depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I bear responsibility"?

Yes, "I bear responsibility" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. It indicates that you accept accountability for something.

What's the difference between "I bear" and "I carry"?

"I carry" often refers to physically holding something or metaphorically managing something. "I bear" can imply a heavier burden, responsibility, or emotional weight. Both phrases are correct, but their connotations differ slightly.