The phrase "bore brunt of" refers to being the main recipient or target of something, often negative. The word "brunt" is pronounced /brʌnt/ with a short u sound like in "butter" and a silent final t. The spelling of the word originates from the Old English word "brūnet" which means "brownish grey" and was used metaphorically to refer to the force of a physical blow. Today, "brunt" is commonly used in idiomatic expressions such as "bear the brunt" or "feel the brunt" to describe the impact or consequences of an event.
The phrase "bore the brunt of" refers to bearing the most significant or severe effects of an event or situation. It implies being at the forefront of impact, facing the majority of the negative consequences, or experiencing the heaviest burden or responsibility. The word "bore" here is used in the past tense, indicating that someone or something has endured, shouldered, or withstood a great deal of pressure or hardship. To "brunt" is the main force of an attack or impact, typically used to describe the most physically or emotionally demanding part of an event or conflict.
"Bearing the brunt" suggests being subjected to the primary or harshest effects of an action, often highlighting a situation where one entity absorbs the majority of the damage or stress. It can be applied across a wide range of contexts, including personal relationships, natural disasters, wars, economic crises, or social movements. In these scenarios, individuals, communities, or countries that bear the brunt may face the greatest repercussions, suffer the most losses, or undergo the most intense struggles. This expression implicitly recognizes that not everyone is impacted equally and places emphasis on those who face the most challenging circumstances. It conveys a sense of endurance, resilience, and having overcome significant difficulties.