1to bear or endure (pain, hardship, etc.); to stand or put up with something
痛みをこらえて最後まで走った。
He endured the pain and ran to the end.
寒さをこらえて外で待った。
I put up with the cold and waited outside.
子どもは涙をこらえて笑顔を作った。
The child held back tears and forced a smile.
2to restrain or control (one's emotions or impulses); to keep a check on feelings such as anger or laughter
怒りをこらえて冷静に状況を説明した。
She held back her anger and explained the situation calmly.
笑いたくなったが、場の空気をこらえて我慢した。
I wanted to laugh, but I restrained myself for the sake of the atmosphere.
悲しい気持ちをこらえて話を続けた。
He controlled his sadness and continued speaking.
3to forgive or put up with someone’s misdeed; to refrain from reproach
彼の失礼な言動をこらえて、先に話を進めた。
She put up with his rude words and proceeded with the conversation.
親は子の過ちをこらえて見守ることもある。
Parents sometimes tolerate their children's mistakes and watch over them.