Unbearably: meaning, definitions and examples

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unbearably

 

[ʌnˈbɛərəbli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a very unpleasant or intolerable manner

In a way that is extremely difficult to endure or tolerate, often causing great distress or discomfort.

Synonyms

agonizingly, excruciatingly, intolerably, uncomfortably.

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Word Description / Examples
unbearably

Used to describe something extremely difficult or painful to endure, often physically or emotionally.

  • The summer heat was unbearably hot this year.
  • She felt unbearably lonely during the holidays.
intolerably

Describes something that cannot be tolerated or endured, often used in situations of extreme discomfort or difficulty.

  • The noise from the construction site was intolerably loud.
  • His behavior at the meeting was intolerably rude.
excruciatingly

Refers to something causing severe or intense pain or discomfort; typically very intense and hard to handle.

  • The dentist visit was excruciatingly painful.
  • She found the awkward silence excruciatingly uncomfortable.
uncomfortably

Used to describe a situation or feeling where there is a minor to moderate level of discomfort, both physically and emotionally.

  • She shifted uncomfortably in her chair during the long meeting.
  • He felt uncomfortably warm in his heavy coat.
agonizingly

Describes something causing extreme physical or emotional pain; often used to emphasize the severity of suffering.

  • He waited agonizingly for the test results.
  • The injury was agonizingly painful, making it hard to move.

Examples of usage

  • The heat was unbearable, making it hard to breathe.
  • She felt unbearably lonely after her best friend moved away.
  • The noise from the construction site was so unbearable that they had to leave the area.
  • The loss of her beloved pet was unbearably painful.
  • He found the suspense of waiting for the exam results unbearably stressful.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 'Unbearably' comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not,' combined with 'bear' which means to endure or tolerate.
  • The root 'bear' has origins in Old English and dates back to the 14th century, meaning to carry or support.
  • The word emphasizes the extreme level of something, indicating that it exceeds what one can endure.

Psychology

  • Experiencing feelings that are 'unbearable' can lead to emotional distress and is often discussed in therapy contexts.
  • Coping mechanisms are crucial to manage feelings that seem overwhelming and difficult to endure.
  • People may use the term figuratively to describe intense emotions like grief, anxiety, or frustration.

Literature

  • The term 'unbearably' is frequently used in poetry and novels to convey deep emotions, often highlighting characters' struggles.
  • Classic literature often portrays characters in 'unbearably' difficult situations to drive conflict and resolution.
  • Authors may describe settings as 'unbearably' hot or cold to evoke a certain atmosphere and impact character emotions.

Culture

  • 'Unbearably' is often used in songs and movies to express themes of love and loss, resonating with audiences.
  • The phrase 'unbearably beautiful' is a popular expression used to describe something that evokes strong, often overwhelming feelings.
  • In social media, people may refer to emotions as 'unbearably real' in discussions about mental health and wellbeing.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers discuss the concept of 'unbearability' to explore human limits and the nature of suffering.
  • Existentialists often argue that confronting unbearable situations is part of the human experience and leads to personal growth.
  • The idea of something being 'unbearable' raises questions about morality and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals.

Translations

Translations of the word "unbearably" in other languages:

🇵🇹 insuportavelmente

🇮🇳 असहनीय रूप से

🇩🇪 unerträglich

🇮🇩 tak tertahankan

🇺🇦 нестерпно

🇵🇱 nieznośnie

🇯🇵 耐えられないほど

🇫🇷 insupportablement

🇪🇸 insoportablemente

🇹🇷 dayanılmaz bir şekilde

🇰🇷 참을 수 없을 정도로

🇸🇦 بشكل لا يطاق

🇨🇿 nesnesitelně

🇸🇰 neznesiteľne

🇨🇳 无法忍受地

🇸🇮 nevzdržno

🇮🇸 óþolandi

🇰🇿 шыдауға келмейтіндей

🇬🇪 განუწყვეტლად

🇦🇿 dözülməz dərəcədə

🇲🇽 insoportablemente

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,747, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.