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forbear

verb

/fɔrˈbɛər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of forbear

To refrain or abstain from doing something, particularly in a patient, self-controlled, or restrained manner.
"He had to forbear from eating the delicious dessert as he was on a strict diet."

Detailed meaning of forbear

It involves exercising restraint, tolerance, or patience in response to a challenging or tempting situation. Forbearance is often demonstrated when one consciously chooses to hold back or avoid taking action, especially in circumstances where it may be tempting to react impulsively or aggressively. Forbearing can also involve showing patience and understanding towards someone's actions or shortcomings, even in the face of frustration or irritation. It embodies a sense of self-discipline and restraint, allowing individuals to navigate conflicts, challenges, or difficult situations with composure and maturity. Forbearance can be an essential virtue in promoting harmony, maintaining relationships, and fostering a peaceful and respectful environment.

Example sentences containing forbear

1. Despite the insult, she chose to forbear and respond with kindness.
2. The teacher asked the students to forbear from talking during the exam.
3. In the face of criticism, she managed to forbear and maintain her composure.
4. He had to forbear from interrupting his colleague during the presentation.
5. The wise parent knew when to forbear and allow their child to learn from their own mistakes.
6. The diplomat had to forbear from expressing their disagreement in order to maintain diplomatic relations.

History and etymology of forbear

The verb 'forbear' has its origins in Old English, where it was known as 'forberan.' This Old English term is a combination of 'for,' meaning 'completely' or 'intensely,' and 'beran,' which means 'to bear' or 'to carry.' Therefore, 'forbear' originally meant to carry on or endure something intensely. Over time, its meaning evolved to emphasize the idea of refraining or abstaining from doing something, particularly in a patient, self-controlled, or restrained manner. When one 'forbears,' they exercise self-control or patience in not taking certain actions or in avoiding certain behaviors. The etymology of 'forbear' underscores its historical connection to the concept of enduring or abstaining, reflecting the idea of carrying on in a restrained and patient manner by refraining from specific actions or reactions.

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Further usage examples of forbear

1. The monk practiced forbearance, choosing not to react to provocation or insult.
2. The team captain urged her teammates to forbear and remain focused on their goal.
3. Despite the temptation, he forbore from making an impulsive purchase and saved his money instead.
4. The politician's speech was filled with calls for unity and the need to forbear from division.
5. The employee had to forbear from complaining about the additional workload in order to maintain a positive work environment.In the face of adversity, he chose to forbear from anger.
6. It takes great strength to forbear from reacting impulsively.
7. She had to forbear making comments during the tense meeting.
8. It's wise to forbear judgment until all facts are known.
9. Despite the provocation, he managed to forbear from arguing.
10. Good leaders know when to forbear from asserting authority.
11. To maintain peace, sometimes you must forbear from retaliation.
12. Parents often forbear from disciplining their children in public.
13. The diplomat showed remarkable forbearance in negotiations.
14. In challenging times, forbearing patience is a virtue.
15. They decided to forbear from pursuing legal action.
16. To build trust, we must forbear from deceitful behavior.
17. It's essential to forbear from making rash decisions.
18. True strength lies in the ability to forbear under pressure.
19. The teacher had to forbear interruptions during the lecture.
20. Sometimes it's best to forbear rather than engage in conflict.
21. Forbearance is a sign of maturity and self-control.
22. He chose to forbear from disclosing the sensitive information.
23. To preserve harmony, we must forbear from stirring strife.
24. In challenging situations, forbearing composure is admirable.