The phrase "bear the brunt of" means to bear the main force or impact of something unpleasant. The /b/ sound at the beginning of "bear" is spelled with a letter B, followed by a diphthong /ɛə/ which is spelled with the letters E and A. The /br/ consonant cluster is spelled with the letters B and R. The /ʌ/ vowel sound in "brunt" is spelled with the letter U, whilst the final /nt/ consonant cluster is spelled with the letters N and T. Together, these spellings make up the phrase "bear the brunt of".
The phrase "bear the brunt of" refers to the experience of enduring or facing the most severe or significant consequences or impacts of a particular situation or event. It expresses the idea that someone or something is the main recipient or target of the negative effects, often implying a disproportionate burden or responsibility.
When someone "bears the brunt of" something, they often find themselves at the forefront of its impact, enduring the majority of the hardships or difficulties associated with it. This can be in a literal sense, such as being subjected to physical harm or injury, or in a figurative sense, such as being burdened with the blame, criticism, or negative repercussions resulting from a particular action or decision. It implies a state of being on the receiving end of the most intense or severe aspects of a situation, usually highlighting the vulnerability or disadvantage faced by the party involved.
The phrase can be used in various contexts, from personal relationships to larger societal issues. For example, during economic crises, it is not uncommon for marginalized communities or the working class to "bear the brunt of" reduced job opportunities or financial hardships. In interpersonal conflicts, one person may "bear the brunt of" the other's anger or disappointment, facing the harshest consequences of their actions or mistakes. Overall, "bearing the brunt of" something implies the experience of being disproportionately affected or impacted by a significant event or circumstance.