a high tolerance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a high tolerance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's ability to endure or accept a particular condition, behavior, or substance without adverse effects. Example: "She has a high tolerance for pain, which allows her to push through intense workouts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Yes, he says, although one with a high tolerance.

The New York Times - Arts

Do you have a high tolerance for fancy dress?

The Guardian - Music

Perhaps Goss just has a high tolerance for insult though.

The Guardian - Money

The second requirement is a high tolerance for failure.

The New York Times

Now, as then, a high tolerance for risk is essential.

The New York Times

Coding, like writing, requires a degree of focus and a high tolerance for frustration.

The New Yorker

Some have a high pain threshold; others have a high tolerance for risk.

The New Yorker

"I guess I have a high tolerance for risk," he said.

The New York Times

"She has a high tolerance for unacceptable behaviour," he admits, with a grimace.

The Guardian - Music

And she suggests one other personality trait required of a terrorist: a high tolerance for risk.

The Guardian - Books

I'm a very restless person and I have a high tolerance for discomfort.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a high tolerance" to describe a positive attribute in professions that require dealing with stressful situations or difficult people. For example, a teacher, a doctor, or a customer service representative.

Common error

While "a high tolerance" suggests the ability to withstand or endure something, it does not necessarily imply acceptance. Be clear about whether you're describing endurance or endorsement to avoid misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a high tolerance" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI shows the phrase is used to describe the degree to which someone or something can withstand or endure a particular condition, substance, or behavior.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a high tolerance" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe the ability to endure or withstand something, be it pain, risk, ambiguity, or even substances. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used, particularly in news, scientific, and formal contexts. While the phrase implies endurance, it does not necessarily mean acceptance, so clarity is crucial in sensitive discussions. When seeking alternatives, consider "a high endurance" or "a high resilience" to convey similar but nuanced meanings. The phrase is adaptable across different registers, making it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a high tolerability

Focuses on the degree to which something can be endured or tolerated, emphasizing the capacity to accept something.

a high toleration

Similar to tolerance but emphasizes the act of allowing or permitting something.

a huge tolerance

Stresses the large extent of the tolerance.

a considerable tolerance

Highlights that the degree of tolerance is significant.

a high endurance

Highlights the ability to withstand hardship or stress over a prolonged period.

higher tolerance

Implies a comparison to a standard or previous level of tolerance.

a high resilience

Emphasizes the ability to recover quickly from difficulties or challenges.

a high resiliency

Synonymous with resilience, emphasizing the ability to bounce back.

achieve tolerance

Highlights the process of developing tolerance over time.

a high pain threshold

Specifically refers to the capacity to endure a great amount of pain.

FAQs

How can I use "a high tolerance" in a sentence?

You can use "a high tolerance" to describe someone's ability to endure difficult situations, substances, or behaviors. For example, "She has "a high tolerance" for spicy food" or "The system has "a high tolerance" for errors".

What are some alternatives to saying "a high tolerance"?

Alternatives include "a high endurance", "a high resilience", or "a considerable tolerance", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a high tolerance for" or "a high tolerance to"?

"A high tolerance for" is generally preferred and more common, especially when referring to abstract concepts or behaviors. "A high tolerance to" is more often used in scientific or medical contexts when referring to substances or environmental factors.

What does it mean when someone says they have "a high tolerance" for something?

It typically means they can endure or withstand a significant amount of something—whether it's pain, stress, ambiguity, or even a substance—without being significantly affected or bothered by it. This doesn't necessarily imply they enjoy it, just that they can handle it.