bear on

To be connected with a subject in a way that matters.

• Your question bears on an important issue.
• None of those documents bore on the case.
• Does this information bear on our discussion?

How to use it: bear on something (This evidence bears directly on the case.)

Similar words: relate to, be relevant to

Common phrases: bear on something, bear on the issue

To affect what happens or how something develops.

• These costs bear on our decision.
• The weather bore on the outcome of the race.
• How will the new rules bear on future investment?

How to use it: bear on something (Several factors bear on the final result.)

Similar words: affect, influence

Common phrases: bear on something, bear on the outcome

To cause trouble or suffering for someone, or make something harder for them.

• These debts bear on the family.
• The long winter bore heavily on the poor.
• Such demands bear on people who already struggle.

How to use it: bear on someone/something (The heavy taxes bore on the poorest families.)

Similar words: burden, weigh on, hinder

Opposites: help

Common phrases: bear on someone, bear on the poor