Bare means uncovered or to uncover. Bear can mean carry, endure, or take on a cost, and a bear is also an animal. Choose by meaning because the words sound alike.
Compare the common uses
- “We walked across the deck in bare feet.” The feet were uncovered.
- “The landlord will bear the cost of the repair.” The landlord will take on the cost.
- “A black bear crossed the road.” The noun names an animal.
Spell bear with me with an e
“Bear with me while I find the file” asks the listener to be patient. In “The dog bared its teeth,” the verb bare means uncover or reveal.
Try it
“Please ___ with me while I clear the ___ shelf.”
Show the answer
Use bear in the request for patience and bare for the shelf if it has nothing on it.
See also Born vs. Borne.
