Intolerably: meaning, definitions and examples

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intolerably

 

[ɪnˈtɒlərəbli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

feeling or behavior

In a way that is not able to be endured or tolerated.

Synonyms

impossibly, unacceptably, unbearably, unendurably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intolerably

When something is so bad or difficult that it cannot be accepted or tolerated.

  • The heat in the room was intolerably high
  • His behavior was intolerably rude
unbearably

Used to describe something that is so uncomfortable or painful that it is almost impossible to endure.

  • The pain in my leg was unbearably intense
  • The noise made the room unbearably loud
unendurably

Used to describe something that is so difficult or painful that it cannot be endured. Rarely used in everyday conversation.

  • The heat in the desert was unendurably scorching
  • The grief she felt was unendurably sad
impossibly

Used to describe something that is extremely unlikely or difficult to achieve, often to an exaggerated extent.

  • The mountain seemed impossibly tall
  • This puzzle is impossibly hard to solve
unacceptably

When something does not meet necessary standards or is not acceptable in a specific situation. Often used in formal contexts.

  • His performance at work has been unacceptably poor
  • It is unacceptably dangerous to drive without a seatbelt

Examples of usage

  • He was intolerably rude to the waiter.
  • She found the heat intolerably oppressive.
  • The noise from the construction site was intolerably loud.
  • The wait for the results seemed intolerably long.
  • The pain in her leg was intolerably sharp.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'intolerabilis', which means 'not able to be tolerated'.
  • It is a combination of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'tolerare' meaning 'to bear' or 'to endure'.
  • The term has been in use since the late 15th century, reflecting increasing social awareness of limits to endurance.

Psychology

  • Experiencing things as intolerable often relates to heightened emotional distress, leading to anxiety and frustration.
  • People may label situations as intolerable to articulate their need for change or support in emotional settings.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy often helps individuals reframe thoughts that label situations as intolerable, promoting healthier coping strategies.

Literature

  • The concept of intolerance is explored in numerous works, highlighting conflicts driven by rigid beliefs.
  • In many novels, characters face intolerable conditions as a way to illustrate moral dilemmas and provoke reader empathy.
  • Classic literature often portrays suffering caused by intolerable social circumstances, emphasizing human resilience.

Sociocultural Impact

  • Intolerance is a significant theme in social movements, highlighting the struggle against discrimination and injustice.
  • Many societies define laws and protections against intolerably harmful behaviors, influencing legislation and community standards.
  • Cultural discussions often center around the concept of 'intolerable' as societies evolve to challenge norms and advocate for inclusion.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'intolerable acts' refers to the punitive measures taken by the British government against American colonists, leading to the American Revolution.
  • Movies often depict intolerably challenging situations, pushing characters to their limits for dramatic effect.
  • Songs sometimes explore the theme of intolerance, resonating with listeners who connect through universal feelings of frustration.

Translations

Translations of the word "intolerably" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intoleravelmente

🇮🇳 असहनीय रूप से

🇩🇪 unerträglich

🇮🇩 tak tertahankan

🇺🇦 нестерпно

🇵🇱 nieznośnie

🇯🇵 耐え難く

🇫🇷 intolérablement

🇪🇸 intolerablemente

🇹🇷 dayanılmaz bir şekilde

🇰🇷 참을 수 없게

🇸🇦 بشكل لا يطاق

🇨🇿 nesnesitelně

🇸🇰 neznesiteľne

🇨🇳 无法忍受地

🇸🇮 neznosno

🇮🇸 óþolandi

🇰🇿 төзгісіз

🇬🇪 აუტანლად

🇦🇿 dözülməz dərəcədə

🇲🇽 intolerablemente

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,346, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.