Tolerance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tolerance

[ˈtɒlərəns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

social interaction

Tolerance is the ability or willingness to accept and respect the beliefs, practices, or behavior of others even if they differ from your own. It involves being open-minded, understanding, and respectful towards diversity.

Synonyms

acceptance, open-mindedness, respect, understanding.

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Word Description / Examples
tolerance

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
acceptance

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
open-mindedness

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
respect

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
understanding

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

Examples of usage

  • Teaching tolerance in schools is crucial for creating a more inclusive society.
  • We should promote tolerance and acceptance of different cultures and beliefs.
Context #2 | Noun

mechanical engineering

In mechanical engineering, tolerance refers to the permissible limit or variation in dimensions, materials, etc., in a machine or mechanical part. It ensures that components fit together properly and function as intended.

Synonyms

allowance, margin, variance.

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Word Description / Examples
tolerance

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

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

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

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.

Examples of usage

  • The engineer adjusted the tolerance of the parts to ensure a perfect fit.
  • Manufacturers must adhere to strict tolerance specifications to maintain quality.
Context #3 | Noun

biology

In biology, tolerance is the ability of an organism to endure environmental conditions, such as temperature, pH, or salinity, that differ from its optimal range. It is crucial for the survival and adaptation of species.

Synonyms

adaptability, endurance, resilience.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tolerance

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.
resilience

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.
adaptability

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.
endurance

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.

Examples of usage

  • Some species have a high tolerance for extreme temperatures.
  • Marine organisms exhibit a wide tolerance range for salinity levels.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures celebrate tolerance as a path to peace and coexistence, especially in multicultural societies.
  • Celebrated in various holidays and events worldwide, such as International Day for Tolerance on November 16th.

Psychology

  • Studies show that practicing tolerance can reduce stress and conflict in interpersonal relationships.
  • Tolerance is linked to empathy, as understanding others' perspectives requires recognizing their feelings.

Education

  • Teaching tolerance in schools helps promote inclusivity and respect among students from diverse backgrounds.
  • Educational programs often include role-playing and discussions to foster tolerance and understanding.

Social Movements

  • The civil rights movement in the 1960s emphasized the importance of tolerance in achieving equality for all people.
  • Modern movements continue to advocate for tolerance and acceptance of marginalized groups and ideas.

Origin of 'tolerance'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'tolerantia', meaning 'to bear' or 'to endure'.
  • It entered English in the late 14th century, evolving from ideas of physical endurance to mental and social acceptance.

The word 'tolerance' originated from the Latin word 'tolerantia', meaning endurance or patience. Over time, its meaning evolved to encompass the acceptance and respect of diversity. Tolerance is a fundamental value in promoting harmony and understanding in societies around the world.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,862, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.