forbear - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
forbear Word Meanings
- to refrain from doing something
- to resist or hold back
- to endure or tolerate
forbear Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
forbear Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/fɔːˈbɛə/
US
/fɔrˈbɛr/
forbear Word Etymology
(a) for- (away) + bear (to carry or endure). (b) Originating from Old English 'forberan,' influenced by Old French. (c) Imagine a sturdy tree forbearing a storm, standing firm against strong winds, representing resilience through challenges.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Forbear is a verb meaning to refrain from doing something, to resist or hold back, and to endure or tolerate under challenging circumstances. It conveys deliberate self-control rather than a simple avoidance. You might forbear from commenting in a tense meeting, forbear to act when impulses arise, or show forbearance as a steady personal trait. The word is somewhat formal and less common in everyday speech, but precise in legal, moral, and literary contexts. Its etymology links away + bear, reinforcing the idea of carrying on without giving in. Learners should not confuse it with endure; endure stresses pain or hardship, while forbear emphasizes choosing not to respond or act.
Usage Reminders
- Use forbear when you deliberately restrain yourself
- It is formal; avoid in casual speech
- Pair with from + verb or with to + verb as needed
- Compare with endure (pain) and with refrain (avoid) for nuance
- Noun form: forbearance, sometimes used in law or ethics
Common Misconceptions
- Endure means the same as forbear; endure emphasizes suffering, while forbear emphasizes self-control.
- forbear is a casual everyday word; actually it is formal and literary.
- forbear can stand alone meaning 'to tolerate' without a following object; typically it cannot.
- forbear equals 'allow' or 'permit' in meaning; they are opposite ideas.
- forbear. from or forbear. to are interchangeable in all contexts; some verbs require only from or only to.
Thinking Differences
Forbear maps to a self-control nuance in English that stresses deliberate restraint; learners often confuse it with tolerate or endure, which focus more on suffering or acceptance rather than controlled action.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main senses: refrain from doing, resist impulses, endure under pressure
- Contrast with endure and refrain to feel the nuance
- Use both from + verb and to + verb forms
- Remember the noun form forbearance
- Read formal contexts (legal, ethical) to hear it
- Practice with polite imperatives in classroom prompts
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'forbear' mean?
A.To tolerate or refrain from something
B.To refuse to do something
C.To insist on an action
D.To ignore someone completely
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of 'forbear' in a sentence.
A.She decided to forbear from making a decision.
B.I will forbear my homework until tomorrow.
C.He will forbear the rules during the game.
D.They chose to forbear the ice cream.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'forbear'?
A.Endure
B.Destroy
C.Reject
D.Embrace
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'forbear'?
A.Submit
B.Tolerate
C.Accept
D.Persist
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where someone might choose to forbear?
A.During a disagreement, someone chose to hold back their anger.
B.A student constantly interrupts the teacher during lectures.
C.One friend mocked another for their choice.
D.They announced their decision to leave the event prematurely.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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