bear no grudge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bear no grudge" is correct in written English and can be used in formal or informal situations.
Example: Despite the argument we had last week, I bear no grudge against my coworker and I am ready to move on and work together again.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

He seems to bear no grudge toward them.

The New York Times - Magazine

They bear no grudge, but they remember well".

The Guardian - Business

Yet Faxon seems to bear no grudge against Montgomerie.

The Guardian - Sport

"We bear no grudge toward Ruskin," Ms. Millais said, "but as a family we knew the BBC documentaries and the books did not tell the truth about her.

The New York Times

"Yes, by all means," said he, "bid him bear no grudge against the Athenians". Then Nicocles, the dearest and most faithful of his friends, begged to be allowed to drink the poison first.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

People of all political persuasions were affected by the declaration of Gordon Wilson, a devout Methodist who later became an Irish senator: "I bear no ill, I bear no grudge".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"I bear no grudges or malice," he said.

The Economist

However, Redknapp is said to bear no grudges towards him.

Independent

I thank God every day, and I bear no grudges.

The New York Times

"To those who have been a little more willing in their public character analysis of me in recent times, could I say the following: I bear no grudges, I bear no one any malice, and if I've done wrong to anyone in what I have said or in what I have done, to them I apologize".

The New York Times

"To those who have been a little more willing in their public character analysis of me in recent times, could I say the following: I bear no grudges, I bear no one any malice, and if I've done wrong to anyone in what I have said or in what I have done to them, I apologize," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bear no grudge", ensure the context clearly indicates what offense or situation is being forgiven or overlooked. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "bear no grudge" to imply passive acceptance of harmful behavior. While it signifies forgiveness, it shouldn't excuse or enable ongoing mistreatment. Differentiate between letting go of resentment and allowing abuse to continue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bear no grudge" functions as a declarative expression, indicating a state of forgiveness or lack of resentment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct English. The examples showcase its use in personal, political, and professional contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bear no grudge" is a correct and relatively uncommon way to express a lack of resentment or ill will. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to convey forgiveness or a desire for reconciliation. Remember that while it signals forgiveness, "bear no grudge" shouldn't be used to passively condone harmful actions. Similar phrases include "hold no resentment" and "harbor no ill will", providing alternative ways to express the same sentiment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not hold a grudge

A more direct and common way of expressing the same sentiment.

have no hard feelings

Indicates a lack of bitterness or resentment.

hold no resentment

Focuses on the absence of resentful feelings.

harbor no ill will

Emphasizes the lack of negative intentions or feelings.

carry no animosity

Highlights the absence of hostile feelings.

nurse no grievance

Suggests a conscious effort not to dwell on past wrongs.

be without rancor

Highlights the absence of deep-seated bitterness.

forgive and forget

Implies both absolution and erasure of past offenses from memory.

let bygones be bygones

Encourages moving on from past disagreements.

not take it personally

Implies detaching oneself from a situation and avoiding resentment.

FAQs

What does it mean to "bear no grudge"?

To "bear no grudge" means to not hold resentment or ill will towards someone for a past offense or perceived wrong. It implies forgiveness and a willingness to move past the issue.

How can I express the idea of "bear no grudge" in simpler terms?

You can use phrases like "hold no resentment", "harbor no ill will", or "have no hard feelings" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "bear no grudge" or "bear no grudges"?

Both "bear no grudge" and "bear no grudges" are grammatically correct. "Bear no grudge" is slightly more common, but the choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

When is it appropriate to say I "bear no grudge"?

It's appropriate after someone has apologized, or when you want to assure someone that you're not holding onto past resentment. This expression aims to foster reconciliation and positive relations.