forbearance - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
forbearance Word Meanings
- the act of refraining from something
- tolerance, patience, or restraint in the face of provocation
- a legal term that refers to the act of refraining from enforcing a right
forbearance Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
forbearance Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/fɔːˈbeərəns/
US
/fɔrˈbɛrəns/
forbearance Word Etymology
forbearance = for- ('before') + bear ('to carry/put up with'). Origin: Middle English from Old French 'forbearance' which comes from Latin 'forbearentia'. Memory: Picture someone holding back their anger, taking a deep breath before reacting, illustrating the idea of 'bearing' with patience before acting.
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
Forbearance is the act of refraining from enforcing a right, law, or demand, often out of patience, restraint, or diplomacy. It can mean showing tolerance when provoked, choosing not to retaliate, or giving someone time to meet obligations. In legal terms, forbearance refers to delaying or waiving a claim, usually with clear conditions. In everyday use, it captures the idea of bearing with others' flaws or delays without losing composure. Mastery comes from recognizing when restraint serves a greater good, such as preserving relationships, avoiding costly fights, or enabling a more favorable outcome than strict insistence might achieve.
Usage Reminders
- Be precise about the context
- Differentiate legal vs. everyday meaning
- Avoid confusing with tolerance or patience
- Use with verbs like show, exercise, grant, delay
- Pair with concrete outcomes to show value of restraint
- Practice contrasting scenarios
Common Misconceptions
- Conflating forbearance with passivity
- Assuming it means tolerating anything
- Thinking it is the same as forgiveness
- Mistaking it for weakness in negotiation
- Confusing it with mere patience
Thinking Differences
English often separates restraint (forbearance) from moral approval; learners may think it equals weakness, but it typically signals deliberate, principled self-control.
Learning Tips
- Compare forbearance with patience and tolerance
- Study legal examples to see the conditionals
- Use collocations: show forbearance, exercise forbearance
- Create role-plays that test restraint under pressure
- Note the difference between restraint and refusal
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'forbearance'?
A.Heat
B.Speed
C.Joy
D.Patience
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'forbearance' used correctly?
A.I can't forbearance how delicious this cake is.
B.He finished the race with great forbearance.
C.She showed great anger and lack of forbearance.
D.The cat purred with forbearance.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'forbearance'?
A.Anger
B.Harshness
C.Impatience
D.Tolerance
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'forbearance'?
A.Compassion
B.Resilience
C.Intolerance
D.Peace
Step 5: Mastery
How would you apply 'forbearance' in a real-life situation?
A.Dealing with a difficult customer patiently
B.Yelling at someone for a mistake
C.Ignoring problems without any care
D.Showing immediate anger without thinking
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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