I can bear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'I can bear' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when expressing the ability to tolerate something. For example: "I can bear the cold weather, but I prefer it warm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I can bear witness to that.

The Guardian

I don't think I can bear that anymore".

The New York Times

I do not think I can bear this".

The Guardian - Opinion

I'm not sure I can bear to see it.

The New York Times

Occasionally, for as long as I can bear it.

The Guardian - Sport

There's no tidy ending, but Bialosky asserts, "The more I know, the more I can bear".

The New Yorker

"I don't know if I can bear to sacrifice one of the twins," she said.

The New York Times

But I don't know if I can bear to show it to her yet.

The Guardian - Books

He says: "I can bear this -- that I am not the young wild guy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

By Marianne Moore The New Yorker, February 22 , 1964P. 26 There is some I can bear-"A master of indignation... View Article By Anthony Lane By Jia Tolentino By Andy Borowitz By Rebecca Mead.

The New Yorker

"I can bear-ly see it".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the level of formality when using "I can bear". While generally acceptable, more formal situations might benefit from alternatives like "I am able to tolerate" or "I am capable of enduring".

Common error

Avoid using "I can bear" in highly formal writing where a more precise or sophisticated synonym might be more appropriate. For example, in a formal report, instead of saying "I can bear the workload", consider "I am capable of managing the workload effectively".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I can bear" functions as a declarative statement expressing the subject's ability or capacity to tolerate, endure, or withstand a particular situation, feeling, or object. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various contexts, from physical discomfort to emotional distress.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I can bear" is a common and grammatically sound expression indicating the ability to tolerate or endure something. Ludwig's AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While versatile, consider more formal alternatives like "I am able to tolerate" in professional settings. The phrase conveys resilience, but also an acknowledgement of limits. Remember to use "I can bear" when you want to express your capacity to withstand a challenging situation, being mindful of the nuances and potential alternatives for different registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I can endure

Similar to "bear" but often used in the context of prolonged hardship.

I can withstand

Emphasizes the ability to resist or stand against something.

I can handle

A simpler, more direct way of saying "I can manage" or "I can deal with".

I am able to tolerate

Replaces "can bear" with a more formal and explicit expression of ability to tolerate.

I am capable of enduring

Focuses on the capacity to withstand something difficult or unpleasant.

I can stomach

Suggests the ability to tolerate something unpleasant or offensive.

I am in a position to withstand

Emphasizes the current state or circumstances that allow for endurance.

I am strong enough to cope with

Highlights the strength and resilience required to manage a situation.

I am prepared to put up with

Implies a willingness to accept something undesirable.

I am resigned to accept

Suggests acceptance of something inevitable, often with a sense of resignation.

FAQs

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

Use "I can bear" to indicate the capacity to tolerate or endure something. For instance, "I can bear the noise for a little while longer", or "I don't think "I can bear that" anymore".

What are some alternatives to "I can bear"?

Alternatives include "I can tolerate", "I can endure", or "I can withstand". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "I can bear with"?

While "I can bear" is grammatically correct, adding "with" changes the meaning slightly. "Bear with me" means "be patient with me". Without "with", "I can bear [something]" means "I am able to tolerate [something]".

What's the difference between "I can bear" and "I have to bear"?

"I can bear" expresses the ability to tolerate something, while "I have to bear" expresses obligation or necessity. For example, "I can bear the discomfort" means I am capable of tolerating it, whereas "I have to bear the discomfort" means I am forced to endure it.