Tolerance: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the ability or willingness to allow the existence, presence, or practice of something, particularly opinions or behavior you may not agree with. Often related to enduring differences.

• We need more tolerance in our community to handle diverse perspectives
• He showed remarkable tolerance towards people of different cultures

Employed when discussing the willingness to agree to or approve something, especially with an added sense of positive reception or recognition.

• Her acceptance of the new company policy helped improve workplace harmony
• Acceptance of others' differences is key to building inclusive environments

Used when indicating the quality of being willing to consider new ideas and perspectives. It often implies a readiness to change one's mind based on new information.

• Open-mindedness is essential for personal growth and innovation
• His open-mindedness allowed him to embrace new experiences fully

Applied when talking about a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something due to their abilities, qualities, or achievements. Can also refer to treating people or things with a certain level of regard and consideration.

• Mutual respect strengthens relationships and communities
• She spoke with respect about her colleagues' accomplishments

Best used when referring to the ability to comprehend and empathize with others' feelings, thoughts, or situations. It suggests a deeper level of knowledge or insight.

• Developing a deeper understanding of different cultures can reduce prejudice
• His understanding of her situation helped them resolve the conflict

Tolerance is often used to describe the ability to endure or accept differences or hardships. It can be used in social, emotional, or mechanical contexts.

• Tolerance is essential in a multicultural society.
• The engine has a low tolerance for heat.

Allowance refers to a permitted amount of something or a periodic payment, often for personal expenses. It can be used in financial, personal, or logistical contexts.

• She received a weekly allowance from her parents.
• The baggage allowance for this flight is 20 kilograms.

Margin is used to describe the edge or border of something, or the amount by which something is won or permitted beyond a set limit. It can be used in financial, mathematical, or geographical contexts.

• The margin of the paper was covered in notes.
• Our profit margin has increased by 5% this year.

Variance refers to the degree of difference or deviation from a norm. It is often used in statistical, financial, or technical contexts.

• There's a significant variance in the data compared to last year.
• The variance in temperatures this month is unusual.

Used in situations where accepting differences or being patient with discomfort is necessary. Often related to social, medical, or chemical contexts.

• She showed great tolerance towards her colleague's different opinion.
• Building up a tolerance to the medication takes time.

Used when referring to the ability to recover from difficulties or bounce back from setbacks. Commonly related to emotional strength, corporate environments, or natural systems.

• His resilience after the accident was truly remarkable.
• The community showed great resilience in the face of the disaster.

Used when referring to the ability to change and fit into new conditions. Often related to job skills, personal growth, or survival in changing environments.

• His adaptability made him a valuable member of the team.
• The animal's adaptability to extreme climates is remarkable.

Used when referring to the ability to withstand hardships or prolonged exertion. Often related to physical activities, sports, or difficult situations.

• Marathon runners need a high level of endurance.
• Her endurance through tough times was inspiring.