Intolerable: meaning, definitions and examples
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intolerable
[ ɪnˈtɒlərəb(ə)l ]
unbearable
Not able to be tolerated or endured; unbearable.
Synonyms
insupportable, unbearable, unendurable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
intolerable |
When something is so bad that you cannot accept or endure it any longer, often used in formal or serious situations.
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unbearable |
Used in everyday language to express that something is so unpleasant or painful that you cannot stand it.
|
unendurable |
Mostly used in literary contexts to talk about situations or conditions that are impossible to tolerate, often emphasizing physical or emotional suffering.
|
insupportable |
Used in formal or literary contexts to describe something that cannot be justified or endured, usually speaking about an argument, condition, or situation.
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Examples of usage
- It was intolerable to sit in the stuffy room for hours.
- The intolerable heat made it impossible to go outside.
unacceptable
Not acceptable or allowable.
Synonyms
inexcusable, unacceptable, unjustifiable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
intolerable |
Used when describing something that cannot be endured or tolerated any longer, often involving pain, discomfort, or conditions.
|
unacceptable |
Used to express something that is not satisfactory or allowable according to certain standards or expectations, can be both actions and situations.
|
unjustifiable |
Used when something lacks a valid reason or excuse and cannot be defended. Often refers to actions or decisions.
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inexcusable |
Used when referring to behavior or actions that cannot be justified or forgiven. Often relates to mistakes or misconduct.
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Examples of usage
- His behavior towards his colleagues was intolerable.
- The decision to cut funding was simply intolerable.
Translations
Translations of the word "intolerable" in other languages:
🇵🇹 intolerável
🇮🇳 असहनीय
🇩🇪 unerträglich
🇮🇩 tak tertahankan
🇺🇦 нестерпний
🇵🇱 nieznośny
🇯🇵 耐えられない
🇫🇷 intolérable
🇪🇸 intolerable
🇹🇷 dayanılmaz
🇰🇷 참을 수 없는
🇸🇦 لا يُطاق
🇨🇿 nesnesitelný
🇸🇰 neznesiteľný
🇨🇳 难以忍受
🇸🇮 neznosljiv
🇮🇸 óþolandi
🇰🇿 төзімсіз
🇬🇪 უძლური
🇦🇿 dözülməz
🇲🇽 intolerable
Etymology
The word 'intolerable' originated from the Latin word 'intolerabilis', which means 'not to be borne'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe situations or behaviors that are unbearable or unacceptable. The concept of intolerance has been a part of human societies throughout history, with individuals and groups often showing an unwillingness to tolerate certain beliefs, practices, or conditions.
Word Frequency Rank
Position #9,767 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.
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