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Sufferance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sufferance

[หˆsสŒfษ™rษ™n(t)s ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

endurance of hardship

Sufferance refers to the state of enduring or tolerating something unpleasant or painful. It can imply a level of patience in the face of difficulty or hardship. This term is often used in legal contexts, where it may denote the acceptance of certain conditions without formally approving them. Additionally, it may convey a sense of passive approval or toleration, where a party permits something to happen without challenge.

Synonyms

endurance, forbearance, patience, resignation, toleration.

Examples of usage

  • Her sufferance in the face of adversity inspired others.
  • He endured his sufferance with remarkable strength.
  • Sufferance of noise from neighbors is bothersome.
  • Living in sufferance, they sought better conditions.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychology, the idea of sufferance relates to resilience, where individuals show remarkable strength in the face of adversity.
  • Studies show that people often develop coping mechanisms to manage suffering, influencing their overall well-being.
  • Emotional sufferance can lead to growth and self-discovery as individuals confront and navigate hardships.

Literature

  • The concept of sufferance appears in many literary works, often symbolizing the human condition and the struggle against pain.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters often exhibit sufferance as they bear emotional and physical trials.
  • Classic literature often explores themes of suffering, prompting readers to reflect on endurance and the human spirit.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Friedrich Nietzsche discussed sufferance as a route to personal strength and growth, encapsulated in 'what doesnโ€™t kill me makes me stronger.'
  • Existentialist thought often embraces the concept of sufferance, as individuals confront the absurdity of existence.
  • The Stoics believed in enduring sufferance as a way to attain inner peace and clarity, promoting acceptance of life's challenges.

Origin of 'sufferance'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'sufferentia', which means endurance or capacity to endure.
  • In Middle English, it evolved from 'sufferance', emphasizing the concept of bearing pain over time.
  • The root word 'suffer' comprises 'sub-' (under) and 'ferre' (to bear), suggesting bearing something under pressure.

The word 'sufferance' originates from the Middle English word 'sofferance', which comes from the Old French 'soffrance', and ultimately from the Latin 'sufferentia'. This Latin term is derived from 'sufferere', meaning 'to bear' or 'to endure', composed of 'sub-' (meaning 'under') and 'ferre' (meaning 'to carry, to bear'). Historically, the use of the term has evolved from a general sense of bearing or supporting pain to its more specific legal and social contexts. In the legal domain, sufferance often referred to situations where permission is not explicitly granted but is inferred from the lack of objection. Over time, 'sufferance' has gained additional connotations of endurance and passive acceptance, reflecting broader human experiences of tolerating various kinds of hardship.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,019, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.