1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To confirm or prove that a claim, theory, or belief is true, especially through evidence.
"The latest research bears out what scientists have suspected for years about sleep deprivation."
separable
bear out
B2 neutral separable transitive
To confirm, support, or prove that something is true.
In plain English
To show that something is true by providing proof or support.
What does "bear out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To support someone in what they say; to vouch for someone's account or character.
"Her colleague bore her out completely when the manager questioned her story."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To carry or bring something out into the open — to bring truth to light.
Actually means
To show that something is true by providing proof or support.
Usage tip
Commonly used in formal and academic contexts as well as everyday speech. Often appears in the passive ('this is borne out by the data') or with factual subjects ('the evidence bears this out'). Slightly more formal than 'back up.'
Words that pair with "bear out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
evidence data findings theory claim suspicion
How to conjugate "bear out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
bear out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bears out
he/she/it
Past simple
bore out
yesterday
Past participle
born/borne out
have + pp
-ing form
bearing out
continuous
Hear "bear out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "bear out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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