Unbearable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unbearable

[ˌʌnˈbɛərəbl ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

feeling

Not able to be endured or tolerated. Causing extreme discomfort or distress.

Synonyms

insufferable, intolerable, unendurable, unmanageable, unsupportable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unbearable	Describes something so painful or distressing that it cannot be endured. Often used for emotional pain, uncomfortable situations, or extreme weather. It implies a high degree of discomfort. The heat was unbearable. Her grief was unbearable after losing her pet.
intolerable	Refers to something that cannot be tolerated or accepted due to its severity or extremity. Often used for conditions or situations that are legally or morally unacceptable. The noise from the construction was intolerable. The working conditions were intolerable.
unendurable	Similar to 'unbearable', it describes something that cannot be endured due to its extreme nature. This term is less common and often used in more formal contexts. The pain of the injury was unendurable. The loneliness during the pandemic became unendurable.
unsupportable	Means something that cannot be supported or justified. It can also refer to something that is so difficult that it cannot be sustained. The costs of the project became unsupportable. Her argument was unsupportable by the evidence provided.
insufferable	Used to describe someone or something extremely annoying or unbearable due to arrogance or unpleasant behavior. This word has a negative connotation, often used for people or situations that evoke strong irritation. His insufferable attitude made it hard to work with him. She found his bragging insufferable.
unmanageable	Used for situations or people that are difficult or impossible to control. It implies lack of control or order. The classroom of unruly students became unmanageable. His anger made him unmanageable.

Examples of usage

The heat was unbearable, making it hard to breathe.
The pain in her chest was unbearable, she knew she needed to see a doctor immediately.
His constant criticism became unbearable, leading to tension in the workplace.
The thought of losing her best friend was unbearable, bringing tears to her eyes.
I find his arrogance unbearable, I can't stand being around him.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

People often find certain emotional experiences, like grief or anxiety, unbearable because they exceed coping abilities.
The term can also describe situations that lead to stress and mental breakdowns, indicating a need for intervention or support.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy often addresses feelings of unbearable distress, teaching ways to manage and cope with intense emotions.

Literature

Famous works often explore themes of unbearable situations, such as in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' with the iconic line 'to be or not to be' reflecting profound existential dilemmas.
In modern literature, characters frequently face unbearable conditions that push them to the limits, highlighting human resilience and the will to survive.
The theme of unbearable love or loss is prevalent in poetry and novels, where authors express the depth of human experience.

Popular Culture

The phrase 'unbearable lightness of being' gained fame through Milan Kundera's novel, which explores the weight of life choices in a philosophical context.
Music often captures unbearable feelings, with many songs addressing heartbreak or overwhelming emotions that resonate with listeners.
Television shows frequently depict characters in unbearable situations, using drama to engage viewers and evoke empathy.

Philosophy

Philosophers have discussed the idea of unbearable suffering, particularly in relation to existential questions about the meaning of life.
Friedrich Nietzsche often examined concepts of suffering, suggesting that enduring unbearable challenges can lead to personal growth or transformation.
The distinction between what is bearable and unbearable often reflects cultural attitudes towards pain, suffering, and endurance.

Origin of 'unbearable'

Main points about word origin

The word 'unbearable' combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'bearable,' which comes from the Old English word 'beran,' meaning 'to carry' or 'to endure.'
The concept of something being unbearable expresses an extreme level of discomfort, surpassing ordinary levels.
The use of 'unbearable' in English dates back to the late 17th century, emphasizing strong emotional or physical responses.

The word 'unbearable' has its roots in the Old English word 'unberan', which means 'not able to bear'. Over time, the word evolved to its current form, used to describe something that is too difficult or painful to endure. The concept of something being unbearable is universal, as people across cultures can relate to the feeling of being overwhelmed by discomfort or distress.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,025, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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