Tolerable: meaning, definitions and examples
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tolerable
[ˈtɒlərəbl ]
Definitions
in a situation
Capable of being endured; bearable; moderately good or agreeable.
Synonyms
acceptable, bearable, endurable, satisfactory.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tolerable |
Used when something is not perfect but you can live with it; it's neither good nor very bad.
|
| bearable |
Emphasizes that although a situation is difficult or uncomfortable, it is possible to endure it.
|
| endurable |
Focusing on the idea of withstanding something over time, especially with potential emotional or physical hardship.
|
| acceptable |
Appropriate for formal situations where something meets the minimum standard but is not necessarily great.
|
| satisfactory |
Indicates that something meets expectations sufficiently but is not exceptional; often used in formal or evaluative contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- It was a tolerable movie, nothing special.
- The heat was tolerable thanks to the breeze.
- She found the job tolerable, but not fulfilling.
in a person
Capable of being tolerated; not excessively unpleasant or offensive.
Synonyms
acceptable, endurable, manageable, passable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tolerable |
Use when something is not great but you can bear with it.
|
| acceptable |
Use when something meets minimum standards or criteria.
|
| manageable |
Use when something is within one’s control or capabilities.
|
| passable |
Use when something is barely adequate, often in terms of performance or quality.
|
| endurable |
Use when referring to something difficult but that one can still withstand.
|
Examples of usage
- She was a tolerable companion, even if a bit boring.
- His behavior was tolerable until he started making offensive comments.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'tolerabilis,' meaning 'that can be borne,' highlighting its connection to endurance.
- In English, it first appeared in the late 15th century, evolving from meanings tied to 'bearing' or 'enduring.'
Psychology
- Tolerating discomfort can promote emotional resilience, helping people manage stress and adversity.
- Studies show that certain levels of discomfort can actually help individuals grow and adapt over time.
Social Dynamics
- In social contexts, ‘tolerable’ can refer to the acceptance of different behaviors or lifestyles, fostering inclusivity.
- Cultures vary significantly in what they consider tolerable, reflecting underlying values and norms.
Literature
- In literature, tolerability often serves as a theme, exploring characters' ability to endure or accept flaws in themselves or others.
- Famous works, such as Shakespeare’s plays, often depict characters grappling with what they can tolerate in love and society.
Pop Culture
- The term is often used in film and music reviews, where critics gauge whether a movie or song is tolerable to audiences.
- In the meme culture, the phrase 'not great, not terrible' reflects a common understanding of tolerable experiences.
Translations
Translations of the word "tolerable" in other languages:
🇵🇹 tolerável
🇮🇳 सहनशील
🇩🇪 erträglich
🇮🇩 dapat ditoleransi
🇺🇦 терпимий
🇵🇱 znośny
🇯🇵 耐えられる
🇫🇷 tolérable
🇪🇸 tolerable
🇹🇷 katlanılabilir
🇰🇷 참을 수 있는
🇸🇦 محتمل
🇨🇿 snesitelný
🇸🇰 znesiteľný
🇨🇳 可忍受的
🇸🇮 znosen
🇮🇸 þolanlegur
🇰🇿 шыдамды
🇬🇪 შემწყნარებელი
🇦🇿 dözülən
🇲🇽 tolerable