`承受` is deeply tied to the Chinese cultural value of resilience and perseverance, often encapsulated in the idiom 吃苦耐劳 (chī kǔ nài láo), which means “to be able to eat bitterness and endure hard work.” The ability to `承受` immense pressure, hardship, or suffering without complaint is traditionally seen as a sign of great strength, maturity, and virtue. In a Western cultural context, especially American culture, there is often an emphasis on vocalizing struggle, seeking external help, or actively changing one's circumstances to eliminate a burden. While this also happens in China, there is a stronger underlying cultural expectation to quietly `承受` one's burdens, particularly in the context of family, work, or societal duty. Admitting you 承受不了 (chéngshòu bùliǎo), or “cannot bear it,” can sometimes be seen as a sign of weakness or may lead to a loss of face (面子, miànzi), as it shows you lack the capacity to fulfill your role. This value highlights a more collectivist mindset, where individual endurance contributes to the stability of the group.
`承受` is a versatile and common word, though it carries a slightly formal tone. It's used frequently in news, formal discussions, and serious conversations.
The connotation is generally neutral to slightly negative, as the object being “borne” is almost always something difficult or undesirable.
A major challenge for learners is distinguishing `承受` from similar verbs.