Bear a Grudge – किसी के प्रति पुरानी नाराजगी रखना

Meaning & Explanation

The idiom “Bear a grudge” means to hold onto anger or resentment against someone for a long time because of a past offense.

Hindi Equivalent:

“किसी के प्रति पुरानी नाराजगी रखना”
Literal Meaning: “To keep old resentment towards someone”

Detailed Explanation

This expression highlights:

• Long-lasting Anger: Maintaining negative feelings over time
• Unforgiving Nature: Difficulty in letting go of past hurts
• Emotional Burden: The weight of carrying resentment

The phrase suggests that holding a grudge is like carrying a heavy load (to “bear” something), which can be emotionally exhausting.

Real-Life Examples

1. Family Conflicts

English: “She still bears a grudge against her sister for missing her wedding.”
Hindi: “उसे अपनी बहन के प्रति अब भी नाराज़गी है क्योंकि उसने उसकी शादी में नहीं आया था।”

2. Workplace Rivalry

English: “The manager bears a grudge against anyone who questioned his decisions last year.”
Hindi: “मैनेजर उन सभी के प्रति नाराज़गी रखता है जिन्होंने पिछले साल उसके फैसलों पर सवाल उठाया था।”

3. Friendship Fallout

English: “After their argument, Ravi has borne a grudge against Amit for years.”
Hindi: “उनकी लड़ाई के बाद, रवि ने अमित के प्रति सालों तक नाराज़गी रखी।”

Psychological & Emotional Insight

Why people bear grudges:
✓ Hurt Pride: Feeling disrespected or wronged
✓ Lack of Closure: Unresolved conflicts
✓ Identity Protection: Defending one’s self-image

Negative Effects:
✗ Increases stress and anxiety
✗ Damages relationships
✗ Prevents personal growth

Usage Tips

✔ Use when describing long-held resentment
✔ Effective in personal/professional conflict discussions
✔ Helps explain ongoing tensions

Similar Expressions

English	Hindi
“Hold it against someone”	“किसी के खिलाफ मन में रखना”
“Nurse a grievance”	“शिकायत को पालना”
“Have a chip on one’s shoulder”	“मन में कड़वाहट रखना”

Cultural Perspectives

Global views on grudges:

• Japanese: “Urami” (怨恨) – deep-seated resentment
• Hebrew: “N’tira” (נטירה) – bearing a grudge is discouraged
• Arabic: “Hiqd” (حقد) – malicious grudge-bearing

Reflection Questions:

1. Have you ever borne a grudge? How did it affect you?
2. What strategies help in letting go of resentment?