"Hadst a bearing on" is an archaic expression derived from Old English, often used in classical literature or historical texts. It is a phrase that involves both a verb and a noun, indicating the influence or impact that something has had on a particular situation, decision, or outcome.
The term "hadst" is the second-person singular past tense form of the verb "have", commonly used in the Old English era. "A bearing on" refers to the capacity or ability to influence or affect something. Hence, when combined, "hadst a bearing on" signifies a past action or event that had an impact or significance in shaping or influencing a particular matter.
In modern usage, this phrase is quite uncommon and has been largely replaced by more contemporary expressions such as "had an effect on", "played a role in", or "made a difference to". However, its historical usage can be found in various literary works, especially those composed during the archaic period.
For instance, in Shakespearean plays like "Hamlet" or "Macbeth", one might come across lines like "Thy words hadst a bearing on his decision," emphasizing that the preceding words or actions affected and influenced the character's subsequent choices or outcomes.
In summary, "hadst a bearing on" refers to the historical usage of the second-person singular past tense form of the verb "have", indicating that something influenced or impacted a situation or outcome in the past.
