Forbear

To refrain from doing something; to hold oneself back, especially from an impulse or urge to act. It implies exercising patience or restraint in various situations, often in the face of annoyance, provocation, or temptation. The term can indicate a deliberate choice to avoid confrontation or negative behavior, reflecting a sense of self-control and understanding.

Forbear meaning with examples

• During the heated debate, Jenna chose to forbear from interrupting her opponent. Her decision to remain silent, despite the tempting urge to provide a counter-argument, allowed for a more constructive discussion. Sometimes, refraining from speaking can lead to a better understanding among participants, as it encourages listening and reflection rather than escalation.
• As the children bickered over toys, their mother decided to forbear from immediately intervening. Instead, she watched closely to see if they could resolve their differences on their own. By refraining from stepping in, she hoped they would learn valuable lessons about sharing and compromise, fostering their independence and problem-solving skills.
• In the face of criticism, Carlos chose to forbear from responding defensively. He recognized that the feedback, although tough to hear, was intended to help him grow professionally. By exercising restraint and considering the comments calmly, he was able to reflect on his work and implement improvements without being hindered by emotional reactions.
• While attending the family gathering, Maria had to forbear from discussing her recent promotion as her cousin was struggling to find a job. Understanding the sensitive situation, she chose not to brag about her success, recognizing that sometimes it is important to prioritize others' feelings over personal achievements.
• Despite the ongoing traffic jam, Thomas decided to forbear from honking his horn in frustration. He realized that getting upset wouldn't change the situation and that patience was necessary. By holding back his irritation, he remained calm and focused, ultimately making the drive more bearable for himself and others around him.