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Which is correct: "bare" or "bear" ?


These two words sound exactly the same, but they have very different meanings! Getting them confused can have very embarrassing consequences ...

bare

"bare" means uncovered or naked.

bear

  1. A large, dangerous, furry mammal.
  2. To carry.
  3. To have a tolerance for or endure.
  4. To carry in the mind (e.g., bear a grudge).
  5. To be accountable for (e.g., bear responsibility).
  6. To have a tolerance for (e.g., couldn't bear the responsibility).

Correct: "Please bear with us while we remodel our store."

Incorrect: "Please bare with us while we remodel our store." (Unless you want to invite your customers to strip off their clothes and watch you working!)

 

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Find the answers to grammatical puzzles like this in The Grammar Cookbook!