Cross to bear – meaning, origin and usage

Almost whenever bad news is being told, someone will use the phrase “cross to bear”. If you’ve ever wondered what that means or how the phrase might have originated, you’ve come to just the place.

In addition to the above we will also be covering how to use the phrase, with the help of a few handy examples, then we will follow that up with a discussion on some similar and synonymous words and sayings that can often be used in place of “cross to bear.”

And without further ado, let’s get straight to it.

What is the meaning of the phrase “cross to bear”?

The phrase “cross to bear” refers to something difficult that someone (or some people) have to endure for one reason or another. This may be a struggle, challenge, or burden that has to be faced but can’t necessarily be easily overcome.

What is the origin of the phrase “cross to bear”?

The phrase “cross to bear” comes from the Christian religion. It is a reference to the form of execution of the religious leader known as Jesus, at approximately 30 AD. It was an ancient Roman practice known as crucifixion. Jesus, and others, were tied to a large wooden cross that they would have to carry, and then they were simply left to die nailed to the cross.

After this barbaric form of execution came to an end, the phrase “cross to bear” was used figuratively as a metaphor to represent a burden that someone has to endure..

How to use the phrase “cross to bear” with examples

Here are some examples of the phrase in use:

• My chronic pain and misery of living with MS is a cross I have to bear, but I try to stay positive.
• Living with an anxiety disorder can be quite a cross to bear, but I’m learning to manage it through cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness.
• Going through this divorce is the cross I bear to get out of this toxic relationship, but I know I’ll come out stronger on the other side.
• My addiction to alcohol became quite a cross to bear, but now I’m focused on recovery and reparations.
• Losing my job was a terrible cross to bear, but I’m using this opportunity to spend more quality time with the little ones.

What are some other ways of saying “cross to bear”?

Here are some examples of words and phrases that can often be used in place of “cross to bear”:

• Difficulty / struggle / harship
• Challenge to endure
• Burden to carry
• Problem to face
• Consequence to deal with
• Trial and tribulation
• Obstacle to overcome
• Heavy load

Final word

So, in summary, the phrase “cross to bear” refers to a challenge, or burden that someone has to endure for one reason or another. This would be something that has to be faced but can’t be easily overcome.

The phrase originates from Christianity and dates back to the crucifixion of Jesus, who was required to carry a large wooden cross that he was then nailed to and left to die on.