1 C1 formal
To exert physical pressure or force against a surface, object, or opposing force.
"The soldiers bore their shields against the gate until it finally gave way."
inseparable
bear against
C1 formal inseparable transitive
To exert pressure or force against something; or to hold a grudge or animosity toward someone.
In plain English
To push hard against something, or to feel negative feelings toward someone.
What does "bear against" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic formal
To hold animosity, resentment, or a grievance toward someone. (Archaic/literary)
"He bore no malice against his rivals, even after losing the election."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To bear (carry/push) oneself or something against a surface or force.
Actually means
To push hard against something, or to feel negative feelings toward someone.
Usage tip
Rare in modern everyday English. More common in literary or formal writing. The 'resentment' sense is largely archaic; modern speakers would say 'have something against' or 'hold a grudge against.'
Words that pair with "bear against"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
wall door current tide enemy pressure
How to conjugate "bear against"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
bear against
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bears against
he/she/it
Past simple
bore against
yesterday
Past participle
born/borne against
have + pp
-ing form
bearing against
continuous
Hear "bear against" in the wild
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