I will not countenance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I will not countenance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express strong disapproval or refusal to tolerate something. Example: "I will not countenance any form of discrimination in our workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I will never embrace this thuggish, venal, gibbering psychotic, and I will not countenance those who do.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Syria Syria has accused the UN of attempting to extend an investigation into an alleged chemical attack in the village of Khan al-Assal in Aleppo province to the rest of the country - a move it says it will not countenance.

The Guardian

The European Commission has said it supports action by member states to tackle abuse of the benefits system by migrants but that it will not countenance restrictions on freedom of movement and labour across Europe.

BBC

But with yesterday's announcement, "I think Treasury has made it clear that they will not countenance games," said Stephan Leimberg, chairman of Leimberg Information Services in Bryn Mawr, Pa., which provides commentaries that help tax lawyers, accountants and financial planning consultants understand tax policy.

The New York Times

as having been helpful in laying the "groundwork" for a Middle East peace conference, presumably in Geneva in Oct. Begin is willing to attend, or be represented, at such a conference, but he will not countenance the presence of the Palestine Liberation Organization.

The New Yorker

But Mr Yanagisawa will not countenance that.

The Economist

Quite rightly, they will not countenance the death penalty.

The Guardian

President Obama has said he will not countenance a nuclear-armed Iran.

The New York Times

It will not countenance a similar tribunal for Iraq.Some of its fears are real.

The Economist

Unfortunately, most "will not countenance" a rise in the petrol tax.

The Economist

And Micheál Martin [the Fianna Fáil leader] will not countenance going into government with Sinn Féin.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I will not countenance" to express strong disapproval or a firm refusal to accept something, especially in formal or serious contexts. It adds a level of formality and gravity to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "I will not countenance" in informal or casual conversations. The phrase is relatively formal and might sound out of place in everyday speech.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I will not countenance" functions as a strong declaration of disapproval or refusal to accept something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and examples show its use in formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I will not countenance" is a formal expression used to convey strong disapproval or refusal to tolerate something. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It is most frequently found in news and media, as well as formal business contexts, indicating a high level of formality. Alternative phrases include "I will not tolerate", "I will not permit", and "I cannot condone". When using this phrase, it is important to consider the formality of the setting to ensure it is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I will not tolerate

Replaces "countenance" with the more common and direct word "tolerate".

I will not permit

Uses "permit" to indicate a lack of allowance for something.

I will not allow

Employs "allow" to express a refusal to let something happen.

I will not stand for

Expresses a firm refusal to accept or tolerate something.

I cannot condone

Uses "condone" to suggest a stronger moral objection.

I cannot accept

Replaces "countenance" with a more direct and simple term.

I find unacceptable

Emphasizes that something does not meet one's standards.

I refuse to endorse

Implies a rejection of support or approval.

I disapprove of

States a feeling of disapproval towards something.

I reject

Provides a more succinct way to express disapproval.

FAQs

What does "I will not countenance" mean?

The phrase "I will not countenance" means "I will not allow" or "I will not tolerate". It expresses strong disapproval and a refusal to accept something. You can use alternatives like "I will not tolerate" or "I cannot accept".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "I will not countenance"?

The phrase "I will not countenance" is best used in formal settings or when you want to emphasize the seriousness of your disapproval. It's common in news reporting, legal documents, and professional communication.

Are there any synonyms for "I will not countenance"?

Yes, there are several synonyms you can use depending on the context. Some alternatives include "I will not tolerate", "I will not permit", or "I cannot condone".

How do I use "I will not countenance" in a sentence?

You can use "I will not countenance" in a sentence by following this structure: "I will not countenance + [the action or behavior you disapprove of]". For example, "I will not countenance any form of disrespect in this office."