American Dictionary

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Definition bear down in American English

bear down phrasal verb

[intransitive] phrasal verb
1

to try very hard

Example

We need to bear down if we want to make this work.

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2

to move quickly toward someone in a determined and threatening way

Example

I could see a police car bearing down on us.

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3

to push or press downward

Example

It's a natural instinct for a woman giving birth to bear down.

Example

The structure is positioned to bear down on its supports.

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Definition bear down in American English