Bear the Brunt, To
To “bear the brunt” means to endure the most intense part of any hardship, violence, or other misfortune. This hearty phrase has deep roots in the early fifteenth century, when “brunt” described the main force of an enemy’s assault, pushing the valiant warriors in the front lines to bear this intense pressure.
As time rolled on, this term slid from battlefield parlance into the everyday life scuffle, meaning anyone enduring the worst part of any difficult situation is “bearing the brunt.” Robert Browning nailed it in his poem Prospice: “…fare like my peers, the heroes of old, Bear the brunt… of pain, darkness and cold.”
Similar Expressions:
- Take the Heat: To receive the bulk of criticism or blame.
- Weather the Storm: To survive a difficult or turbulent period.
- Face the Music: To confront the consequences of one’s actions.
- Carry the Load: To bear the weight or responsibility, often more than one’s fair share.
Related Proverbs:
- “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”
- “This too shall pass.”
Humorous Quote:
“Don’t worry if you’re bearing the brunt. It just means you have good stamina…and possibly a harder head than others.”
Literature and Media:
- Books: The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway, Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl.
- Movies: Rocky series, The Pursuit of Happyness.
- Songs: “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor, “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor.
- Poetry: “If–” by Rudyard Kipling, Invictus by William Ernest Henley.
Quizzes
Inspirational Farewell: As you journey through life, you may often find yourself in the thick of it, bearing the brunt. Remember, these moments forge resilience. Just like the heroes of old, rise to the challenge, for each brunt borne is a testament to your unwavering strength.
— Amanda Lexicord
