phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

The Phrase Finder
Phrases, Sayings and Idioms Home > Discussion Forum

- We are also on

A Phrase A Week - Facebook Group & Follow aphraseaweek on Twitter

Re: Bear with me

Posted by Smokey Stovere on September 19, 2009 at 04:36

In Reply to: Bear with me posted by Laura Parker on September 18, 2009 at 19:18:

: Where does the phrase "bear with me" come from? Is it from a Shakespeare play?

I don't think Shakespeare used the exact phrase "bear with me." He did use bear in the sense of pressing against resistance, or heading generally in a certain direction. In nautical terminology from Shakespeare's day and later, it nas to do with direction also.

We (or at least we Americans) often use the verb "bear" instansitively in a directional sense. "When you come to a fork in the road, bear left." It differs, obviously, from turning left, as it also does in nautical use.

I haven't seen any expert advice that "bear with me" has its origin in direction, but I think it does. For the sake of argument, pretend that you are going in the same direction as I, and hear me out. This is just a suggestion; I have no proof.
SS