cannot be tolerated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be tolerated" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to express that something is not acceptable or should not be allowed. For example: "Racism and bigotry in any form cannot be tolerated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It cannot be tolerated.

The New Yorker

No, this cannot be tolerated.

The Guardian - Books

But long delays cannot be tolerated.

The New York Times

This cannot be tolerated and must stop".

The Guardian

This cannot be tolerated," said Liu.

The Guardian

He said: "This kind of attack cannot be tolerated.

The Guardian

"They disrupt entire communities and cannot be tolerated.

The New York Times

"These serious civil rights offenses cannot be tolerated".

The New York Times

No one denies that crime exists and cannot be tolerated.

The New York Times

Such tactics cannot be tolerated among sportsmen of integrity".

The New York Times - Sports

"This form of activity, this behavior, cannot be tolerated.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be tolerated", clearly state what action or behavior is unacceptable to avoid ambiguity. For example: "Discrimination of any kind cannot be tolerated in this workplace."

Common error

While "cannot be tolerated" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or harsh in casual conversation. Consider using milder alternatives like "isn't acceptable" or "shouldn't be allowed" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be tolerated" functions as a modal expression of prohibition or strong disapproval. It indicates that something is unacceptable and will not be allowed to continue. Ludwig indicates this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cannot be tolerated" is a strong expression used to convey that something is unacceptable and impermissible. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It frequently appears in News & Media sources and less often in encyclopedias, reflecting its use in both reporting on and condemning unacceptable behavior. To ensure clarity, specify what action is unacceptable. While versatile, its formality level may be too strong for casual conversation. Related phrases include "is unacceptable" and "must not be allowed", providing alternative ways to express disapproval. In conclusion, while "cannot be tolerated" is correct and conveys strong disapproval, be mindful of its formality and choose milder alternatives when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unacceptable

States that something does not meet the required standards or is not satisfactory.

cannot be condoned

Focuses on the idea that something is morally wrong and should not be excused.

is not permissible

Similar to impermissible, indicating a lack of permission or authorization.

will not be accepted

Indicates a firm refusal to accept something, often with a tone of authority.

must not be allowed

Emphasizes prohibition, focusing on preventing something from happening.

is impermissible

Highlights that something is not allowed due to rules or laws.

should not be permitted

Recommends against allowing something, implying a degree of choice.

is inadmissible

Suggests something is not to be accepted, especially in formal contexts like legal proceedings.

is out of the question

Expresses that something is completely impossible or unacceptable.

is beyond the pale

Implies that something is outrageously unacceptable or offensive.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot be tolerated" in a sentence?

Use "cannot be tolerated" to express that a particular behavior, action, or situation is unacceptable and should not be allowed. For example: "Such disrespect "cannot be tolerated" in this environment."

What can I say instead of "cannot be tolerated"?

You can use alternatives such as "is unacceptable", "must not be allowed", or "cannot be condoned" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "cannot be tolerated" or "should not be tolerated"?

"Cannot be tolerated" implies a stronger stance and a firm rule against something, while "should not be tolerated" suggests a recommendation or a less absolute position. Choose the phrase that best reflects the level of prohibition you intend to convey.

What's the difference between "cannot be tolerated" and "cannot be accepted"?

"Cannot be tolerated" emphasizes that something is unbearable or impermissible, whereas "cannot be accepted" simply means something is not agreed upon or approved. "Cannot be tolerated" often carries a stronger negative connotation.