Have you ever paused while writing an email, wondering if it’s “bear in mind” or “bare in mind”? You’re not alone!
Thousands of people search for this phrase every month, unsure about the correct spelling.
It’s easy to mix them up since “bear” and “bare” sound the same but mean very different things.
This article clears up the confusion once and for all.
You’ll learn the correct expression, its origin, and how to use it properly in American and British English.
By the end, you’ll never have to double-check this phrase again—and you’ll understand why one version makes perfect sense while the other doesn’t.
Let’s get straight to the answer.
Bear in Mind or Bare in Mind – Quick Answer
✅ The correct phrase is “bear in mind.”
❌ “Bare in mind” is incorrect in all forms of English.
Meaning:
“Bear in mind” means to remember, consider, or keep in mind something important.
Examples:
- ✅ Please bear in mind that the meeting starts at 9 a.m.
- ✅ Bear in mind that this offer expires tomorrow.
- ❌ Bare in mind the schedule changes. (Wrong)
Think of “bear” here as “carry.” You’re carrying an idea in your mind.
The Origin of “Bear in Mind or Bare in Mind”
The word “bear” comes from the Old English beran, meaning to carry or hold up.
When you say “bear in mind,” you’re literally saying “carry an idea in your mind.”
“Bare,” on the other hand, comes from Old English bær, meaning uncovered or exposed. So, “bare in mind” would mean “expose your mind,” which doesn’t make sense in this phrase.
That’s why only “bear in mind” is grammatically and historically correct.
British English vs American English Spelling
Both British and American English use “bear in mind.”
There is no spelling difference between regions for this phrase.
| Region | Correct Form | Common Errors | Notes |
| UK English | bear in mind | bare in mind | Used in formal and casual writing |
| US English | bear in mind | bare in mind | Same usage as UK |
| Canada / Australia | bear in mind | bare in mind | Consistent across Commonwealth English |
Both sides of the Atlantic agree—“bear in mind” is the only correct form.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Always use “bear in mind.”
- 🇺🇸 In the US: “Bear in mind” is standard in business emails, academic writing, and journalism.
- 🇬🇧 In the UK and Commonwealth: Same rule applies—“bear in mind” is the accepted form.
- 🌍 Globally: Since English learners follow these standards, “bear in mind” works universally.
If you’re writing for an international audience, “bear in mind” is your safest and most professional choice.
Common Mistakes with “Bear in Mind or Bare in Mind”
Here are some typical errors learners make:
| Incorrect | Correct | Why It’s Wrong |
| Bare in mind | Bear in mind | “Bare” means uncover, not carry or remember. |
| Bear on mind | Bear in mind | Wrong preposition. Use “in.” |
| Beared in mind | Bear in mind | “Bear” is irregular; the past form is “bore.” |
| Bare with me | Bear with me | Same confusion—“bear” means tolerate or carry. |
👉 Always double-check phrases like “bear in mind” and “bear with me.” They both use bear, not bare.
“Bear in Mind or Bare in Mind” in Everyday Examples
You’ll see “bear in mind” in all kinds of writing:
In emails:
“Please bear in mind that the deadline is Friday.”
In news articles:
“Bear in mind, this policy may change after the election.”
In social media posts:
“Bear in mind that success takes time.”
In formal writing:
“Readers should bear in mind the cultural context of this study.”
Notice how it always means “remember” or “consider.”
“Bear in Mind or Bare in Mind” – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search data shows that “bear in mind” is used far more often than “bare in mind.”
| Phrase | Search Popularity (Global) | Usage Accuracy |
| Bear in mind | 🔹 95% | ✅ Correct |
| Bare in mind | 🔸 5% | ❌ Incorrect |
Top countries searching for the phrase:
🇺🇸 United States
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇨🇦 Canada
🇮🇳 India
🇦🇺 Australia
Most users search to confirm the correct spelling, proving how common this confusion is.
FAQs
1. Is it “bear in mind” or “bare in mind”?
Always bear in mind — “bare” is incorrect.
2. What does “bear in mind” mean?
It means to remember or consider something important.
3. Can I say “bare in mind” in informal writing?
No. It’s always wrong, even casually.
4. Is “bear in mind” British or American?
Both! It’s used worldwide.
5. What’s the difference between “bear in mind” and “keep in mind”?
They mean the same thing. “Keep in mind” is a bit more casual.
6. What’s the past form of “bear in mind”?
“Bore in mind.” Example: She bore in mind his advice.
7. Is “bear with me” related?
Yes. It also uses “bear” (meaning carry or tolerate), not “bare.”
Conclusion
When you wonder, “Is it bear in mind or bare in mind?” — remember this simple truth:
✅ Always use “bear in mind.”
It’s the only correct phrase, used in every form of English. The word “bear” means to carry or hold, making it perfect for expressing the idea of carrying a thought in your mind.
So next time you write an email, essay, or post, bear in mind this guide. It’s a small detail, but one that shows precision and confidence in your English writing. And that’s something worth remembering!
