Bear vs. Dear: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 7, 2023
"Bear" primarily refers to a large mammal or to endure, while "Dear" signifies a loved one or describes something precious or expensive. These words have entirely different meanings and uses.
Key Differences
"Bear" and "Dear" are English words with completely different meanings and applications. The term "Bear" can refer to the large mammal known for its strength and is classified under the family Ursidae, such as the grizzly bear or polar bear. It can also mean to carry or endure something. Conversely, "Dear" is used as a form of affectionate address, often to loved ones, and can also describe something that is precious, loved, or expensive.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Analyzing the structure and utility of "Bear," it can be used as a noun or a verb, depending on the context. As a noun, it refers to the animal, and as a verb, it describes the act of holding, carrying, or enduring. "Dear," on the other hand, can act as a noun, adjective, or adverb. As a noun, it is a term of endearment, and as an adjective or adverb, it conveys value or costliness, such as in "a dear price."
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
In terms of grammar, the plurals are also formed differently. The plural of "Bear" is "bears," referring to more than one of the large mammals. In contrast, "Dear" doesn't typically form a regular plural as it often refers to one person as a term of endearment or is used as an adjective to describe singular and plural nouns.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
While "Bear" and "Dear" both have numerous meanings and uses, their contexts don't overlap, keeping them distinct in communication. "Bear" relates to strength, endurance, and a specific family of animals, while "Dear" revolves around affection, high value, or a high price point.
Sara Rehman
Sep 26, 2023
"Dears" can be used to address more than one person affectionately, but this usage is less common and can be considered informal or colloquial. "Dear" can also be used in formal letter writing as a polite form of address, such as "Dear Sir/Madam," showing its versatility in formal and informal communications. "Bear" doesn’t possess such a versatile application and remains distinct in its meaning, relating either to the animal or the act of carrying or enduring.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Meaning
Refers to a large mammal or to carry/endure.
Signifies a loved one or something precious/expensive.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Usage
Can be used to depict strength or endurance.
Often used as a term of endearment or to denote high value.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Context
Relates to animals or endurance.
Revolves around affection and value.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 26, 2023
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Bear and Dear Definitions
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Bear
To carry (something) on one's person from one place to another
Bore the suitcase to the station.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To move from one place to another while containing or supporting (something); convey or transport
A train bearing grain.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Highly esteemed or regarded. Used in direct address, especially in salutations
Dear Lee Dawson.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To cause to move by or with steady pressure; push
A boat borne along by the current.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To carry or hold in the mind over time; harbor
Bear a grudge.
Bear ill will.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To have as a visible characteristic or attribute
A letter bearing his name.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Earnest; ardent
"This good man was a dear lover and constant practicer of angling" (Izaak Walton).
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To have a tolerance for; endure
Couldn't bear his lying.
Can't bear to see them leave.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Used as a polite exclamation, chiefly of surprise or distress
Oh dear.
Dear me.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
(UK) High in price; expensive.
The dearer the jewel, the greater the love expressed.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To have relevance or influence; apply
They studied how the relativity theory bears on the history of science.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To endure something with tolerance or patience
Bear with me while I explain what happened.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To extend or proceed in a specified direction
The road bears to the right at the bottom of the hill.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Loving, affectionate, heartfelt
Such dear embrace tenderly comforts even in this dear sorrow.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To be directed or aimed in a certain direction or at a target
The guns were brought to bear upon the approaching fleet.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Precious to or greatly valued by someone.
The dearer the giver, the dearer the trinket he brings!
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Any of various usually omnivorous mammals of the family Ursidae that have a shaggy coat and a short tail and walk with the entire lower surface of the foot touching the ground.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
A formal way to start (possibly after my) addressing somebody at the beginning of a letter, memo etc.
Dear Sir/Madam/Miss, please notice our offices will be closed during the following bank holidays:nb....
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Any of various other animals, such as the koala, that resemble a true bear.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
A formal way to start (often after my) addressing somebody one likes or regards kindly.
My dear friend, I feel better as soon as you come sit beside my sickbed!
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
An ironic way to start (often after my) addressing an inferior.
My dear boy, if your grades don't pick up I won't bounce you on, but over my knee!
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
One, such as an investor, that sells securities or commodities in expectation of falling prices.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(Slang) Something that is difficult or unpleasant
The final exam was a bear.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
(obsolete) Fierce.
The Christens found the heathens dear, as the lion doth the bear.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
A very kind, loving person.
My little cousin is such a dear, always drawing me pictures.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
An affectionate, familiar term of address, such as used between husband and wife.
Pass me the salt, would you dear?
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
A large, generally omnivorous mammal (a few species are purely carnivorous or herbivorous), related to the dog and raccoon, having shaggy hair, a very small tail, and flat feet; a member of the family Ursidae.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(finance) An investor who sells commodities, securities, or futures in anticipation of a fall in prices.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
(dated) Indicating surprise, pity, or disapproval.
Dear, dear! Whatever were they thinking?
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Bearing a high price; high-priced; costly; expensive.
The cheapest of us is ten groats too dear.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Marked by scarcity or dearth, and exorbitance of price; as, a dear year.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Highly valued; greatly beloved; cherished; precious.
Neither count I my life dear unto myself.
And the last joy was dearer than the rest.
Dear as remember'd kisses after death.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Hence, close to the heart; heartfelt; present in mind; engaging the attention.
[I'll] leave you to attend him: some dear causeWill in concealment wrap me up awhile.
His dearest wish was to escape from the bustle and glitter of Whitehall.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Of disagreeable things and antipathies.
In our dear peril.
Would I had met my dearest foe in heavenOr ever I had seen that day.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Something difficult or tiresome; a burden or chore.
That window can be a bear to open.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To endeavour to depress the price of, or prices in.
To bear a railroad stock
To bear the market
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To carry or convey, literally or figuratively.
They came bearing gifts.
Judging from the look on his face, he wasn't bearing good news.
The little boat bore us to our destination.
This plant's light and fluffy seeds may be borne by the wind to remote islands.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To carry upon one's person, especially visibly; to be equipped with.
The right to bear arms
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To carry (offspring in the womb), to be pregnant (with).
The scan showed that the ewe was bearing twins.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
With or in a close or intimate relationship;
A good friend
My sisters and brothers are near and dear
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To have or display (a mark or other feature).
She still bears the scars from a cycling accident.
The stone bears a short inscription.
This bears all the hallmarks of a terrorist attack.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Earnest;
One's dearest wish
Devout wishes for their success
Heartfelt condolences
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To display (a particular heraldic device) on a shield or coat of arms; to be entitled to wear or use (a heraldic device) as a coat of arms.
The shield bore a red cross.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Having a high price;
Costly jewelry
High-priced merchandise
Much too dear for my pocketbook
A pricey restaurant
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To present or exhibit (a particular outward appearance); to have (a certain look).
He bore the look of a defeated man.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To have (a name, title, or designation).
The school still bears the name of its founder.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To possess or enjoy (recognition, renown, a reputation, etc.); to have (a particular price, value, or worth).
The dictator bears a terrible reputation for cruelty.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Dear
Used as a polite form of address.
Dear Mr. Smith, I am writing to inform you...
Janet White
Sep 26, 2023
Bear
To have (interest or a specified rate of interest) stipulated in its terms.
The bond bears a fixed interest rate of 3.5%.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To have (an appendage, organ, etc.) as part of the body; (of a part of the body) to have (an appendage).
Only the male Indian elephant bears tusks.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To carry or hold in the mind; to experience, entertain, harbour (an idea, feeling, or emotion).
To bear a grudge, to bear ill will
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To feel and show (respect, reverence, loyalty, etc.) to, towards, or unto a person or thing.
The brothers had always borne one another respect.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To possess inherently (a quality, attribute, power, or capacity); to have and display as an essential characteristic.
To bear life
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To have (a relation, correspondence, etc.) to something else.
The punishment bears no relation to the crime.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To give (written or oral testimony or evidence); (figurative) to provide or constitute (evidence or proof), give witness.
His achievements bear testimony to his ability.
The jury could see he was bearing false witness.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To have (a certain meaning, intent, or effect).
This word no longer bears its original meaning.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To behave or conduct (oneself).
She bore herself well throughout the ordeal.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To possess and use, to exercise (power or influence); to hold (an office, rank, or position).
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To support or sustain; to hold up.
This stone bears most of the weight.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To endure or withstand (hardship, scrutiny, etc.); to tolerate; to be patient (with).
The pain is too much for me to bear.
I would never move to Texas — I can't bear heat.
This reasoning will not bear much analysis.
Please bear with me as I try to find the book you need.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To sustain, or be answerable for (blame, expense, responsibility, etc.).
The hirer must bear the cost of any repairs.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To admit or be capable of (a meaning); to suffer or sustain without violence, injury, or change.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To warrant, justify the need for.
This storm definitely bears monitoring.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
(transitive) To afford, to be something to someone, to supply with something. en
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To push, thrust, press.
The rope has frayed where it bears on the rim of the wheel.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To take effect; to have influence or force; to be relevant.
To bring arguments to bear
How does this bear on the question?
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Of a weapon, to be aimed at an enemy or other target.
The cannons were wheeled around to bear upon the advancing troops.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To give birth to (someone or something) may take the father of the direct object as an indirect object.
In Troy she becomes Paris’ wife, bearing him several children, all of whom die in infancy.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To produce or yield something, such as fruit or crops.
This year our apple trees bore a good crop of fruit.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To be, or head, in a specific direction or azimuth (from somewhere).
Carry on past the church and then bear left at the junction.
By my readings, we're bearing due south, so we should turn about ten degrees east.
Great Falls bears north of Bozeman.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Characterized by declining prices in securities markets or by belief that the prices will fall.
The great bear market starting in 1929 scared a whole generation of investors.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To support and remove or carry; to convey.
I 'll bear your logs the while.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To possess and use, as power; to exercise.
Every man should bear rule in his own house.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To sustain; to have on (written or inscribed, or as a mark), as, the tablet bears this inscription.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To possess or carry, as a mark of authority or distinction; to wear; as, to bear a sword, badge, or name.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To possess mentally; to carry or hold in the mind; to entertain; to harbor
The ancient grudge I bear him.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To endure; to tolerate; to undergo; to suffer.
Should such a man, too fond to rule alone,Bear, like the Turk, no brother near the throne.
I cannot bearThe murmur of this lake to hear.
My punishment is greater than I can bear.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To gain or win.
Some think to bear it by speaking a great word.
She was . . . found not guilty, through bearing of friends and bribing of the judge.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To sustain, or be answerable for, as blame, expense, responsibility, etc.
He shall bear their iniquities.
Somewhat that will bear your charges.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To admit or be capable of; that is, to suffer or sustain without violence, injury, or change.
In all criminal cases the most favorable interpretation should be put on words that they can possibly bear.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To afford; to be to; to supply with.
His faithful dog shall bear him company.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To bring forth or produce; to yield; as, to bear apples; to bear children; to bear interest.
Here dwelt the man divine whom Samos bore.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To produce, as fruit; to be fruitful, in opposition to barrenness.
This age to blossom, and the next to bear.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To press; - with on or upon, or against.
These men bear hard on the suspected party.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To take effect; to have influence or force; as, to bring matters to bear.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To relate or refer; - with on or upon; as, how does this bear on the question?
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To have a certain meaning, intent, or effect.
Her sentence bore that she should stand a certain time upon the platform.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To be situated, as to the point of compass, with respect to something else; as, the land bears N. by E.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
To endeavor to depress the price of, or prices in; as, to bear a railroad stock; to bear the market.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Any species of the genus Ursus, and of the closely allied genera. Bears are plantigrade Carnivora, but they live largely on fruit and insects.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
An animal which has some resemblance to a bear in form or habits, but no real affinity; as, the woolly bear; ant bear; water bear; sea bear.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
One of two constellations in the northern hemisphere, called respectively the Great Bear and the Lesser Bear, or Ursa Major and Ursa Minor.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
A person who sells stocks or securities for future delivery in expectation of a fall in the market.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Barley; the six-rowed barley or the four-rowed barley, commonly the former (Hordeum hexastichon or Hordeum vulgare).
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Massive plantigrade carnivorous or omnivorous mammals with long shaggy coats and strong claws
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
An investor with a pessimistic market outlook; an investor who expects prices to fall and so sells now in order to buy later at a lower price
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Put up with something or somebody unpleasant;
I cannot bear his constant criticism
The new secretary had to endure a lot of unprofessional remarks
He learned to tolerate the heat
She stuck out two years in a miserable marriage
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Move while holding up or supporting;
Bear gifts
Bear a heavy load
Bear news
Bearing orders
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Bring forth,
The apple tree bore delicious apples this year
The unidentified plant bore gorgeous flowers
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Take on as one's own the expenses or debts of another person;
I'll accept the charges
She agreed to bear the responsibility
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Contain or hold; have within;
The jar carries wine
The canteen holds fresh water
This can contains water
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Bring in;
Interest-bearing accounts
How much does this savings certificate pay annually?
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Behave in a certain manner;
She carried herself well
He bore himself with dignity
They conducted themselves well during these difficult times
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Have rightfully; of rights, titles, and offices;
She bears the title of Duchess
He held the governorship for almost a decade
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Support or hold in a certain manner;
She holds her head high
He carried himself upright
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
Be pregnant with;
She is bearing his child
The are expecting another child in January
I am carrying his child
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 26, 2023
Bear
She bore the pain with great courage.
To produce or yield, especially fruit or offspring.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 26, 2023
FAQs
Can "bear" refer to enduring something?
Yes, "bear" can mean to endure or withstand something.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can "dear" be used to describe something expensive?
Yes, "dear" can describe something that is high in price or expensive.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can "bear" mean to carry something?
Yes, "bear" can also mean to carry or transport something.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can "dear" be used as a term of endearment?
Yes, "dear" is commonly used as a term of endearment for loved ones.
Janet White
Sep 26, 2023
Can "dear" denote something precious or valuable?
Yes, "dear" can denote something precious, valuable, or cherished.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Is "bear" used to depict strength?
Yes, "bear" is often used to symbolize strength or endurance.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Is "bear" always a noun?
No, "bear" can be used both as a noun, referring to the animal, and a verb, meaning to carry or endure.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can "dear" be used in formal communications?
Yes, "dear" is used in formal communications, typically as a polite form of address in letters.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Does "bear" always refer to the animal?
No, "bear" has multiple meanings including to carry, endure, or to produce or yield.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can "bear" refer to producing or yielding something?
Yes, "bear" can mean to produce or yield, especially in reference to fruit or offspring.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
Can "dear" be used as an adverb?
Yes, "dear" can be used as an adverb, as in "it cost me dear."
Sara Rehman
Sep 26, 2023
Is "dear" only used to address loved ones?
No, "dear" can also be used to describe something that is high in price, valuable, or as a polite form of address.
Janet White
Sep 26, 2023
Can "bear" also mean to support or hold up?
Yes, "bear" can mean to hold up or support, as in bearing weight.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 26, 2023
Is "dears" a correct plural form of "dear"?
"Dears" can be used informally to address more than one person affectionately, but it is less common.
Sara Rehman
Sep 26, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
