Bear this in mind 🐻🧠

Meaning

Remember and consider this information when making a decision or taking action.

Origin

The imagery of 'bearing' something in mind conjures the act of carrying a physical weight, suggesting that the information to be remembered is significant and should be carried with you. This metaphor likely evolved from early concepts of memory as a form of internal storage or burden, where important facts or duties were 'borne' by the mind throughout the day. It speaks to a time when knowledge wasn't instantly accessible, and much had to be actively held and managed internally, much like a traveler carries their provisions.

Bear this in mind represented with emoji🐻🧠

This delightful pairing of a bear and a brain playfully underscores the importance of remembering and considering information. It teaches the viewer to bear in mind the wisdom contained within, not just as a simple reminder, but as a fundamental aspect of thoughtful decision-making. Observe how the seemingly simple icons evoke a profound message about cognition and memory.

Examples

  • Bear this in mind when you choose your next project.
  • You should bear this in mind before you make any promises.
  • Bear this in mind: the squirrels have a secret map of the best nut-hiding spots.
  • Bear this in mind, little adventurer: dragons are sometimes just big cats who've had too much caffeine.

Frequently asked questions

What's the opposite of 'bear this in mind'?

The opposite of 'bear this in mind' is to 'forget' or 'disregard' something, essentially letting go of the information rather than carrying it mentally. This means not considering the information when making decisions or taking actions.

Is 'bear this in mind' an idiom or a literal command?

'Bear this in mind' is an idiom, not a literal command to physically carry something. While it uses the imagery of carrying, its meaning is entirely metaphorical, referring to the mental act of remembering and considering.

Can 'bear this in mind' be used ironically?

Yes, 'bear this in mind' can be used ironically to highlight the obviousness or triviality of something that is being presented as important. The speaker might use the phrase sarcastically if they believe the listener should already know or consider the information without being reminded.

Does 'bear this in mind' imply a burden?

The phrase 'bear this in mind' can imply a slight burden, as the verb 'bear' suggests carrying or holding something significant. This emphasizes that the information being remembered is important and requires mental effort or consideration.