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Forbear Meaning in English

word

fɔːˈbɛə
for-BAIR
fɔːˈbɛə
for-BAIR

Definition

To stop yourself from doing something or to patiently avoid an action, often out of self-control or kindness.

Usage & Nuances

Formal, literary, or old-fashioned. Commonly used in legal, poetic, or very polite contexts. Usually appears as 'forbear from (doing something)'. Not to be confused with 'forebear' (ancestor). Rarely used in daily conversation.

Example Sentences

Please forbear from making noise in the library.

basic

He tried to forbear from laughing during the speech.

basic

She could not forbear from speaking her mind.

basic

Though he was angry, he managed to forbear any harsh words.

natural

If you can forbear, things will probably calm down.

natural

They could hardly forbear from bursting into applause at the end.

natural