intolerable situation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intolerable situation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a circumstance that is unbearable or unacceptable. Example: "The ongoing conflict in the region has created an intolerable situation for the local population, forcing many to flee their homes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is an intolerable situation.

The New York Times

That is an intolerable situation.

The New York Times - Sports

The papacy found itself faced with an intolerable situation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

She said it made "an intolerable situation tolerable".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

One year on, it is unthinkable that Raif Badawi is still stuck in this intolerable situation".

Independent

This avoided the intolerable situation for each country of seeing its long-term rival control Palestine.

The Guardian

"I smoked the odd joint … it made an intolerable situation tolerable," she said.

The Guardian

Why should a popular artist have any obligation to propose "sane" solutions to an intolerable situation?

The New Yorker

He was put in an intolerable situation and, as many would, found himself unable to cope.

The Guardian - Books

"It's an intolerable situation... what we are seeing is chemical warfare and it has to stop".

The Guardian

This is an intolerable situation; a main aim of Michelle Bachelet's tax reform is to redress it.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intolerable situation" to describe scenarios involving human suffering, injustice, or severe challenges to create a sense of urgency and encourage action.

Common error

While "intolerable situation" is grammatically correct, avoid using it in overly casual or informal contexts where simpler language might be more appropriate. A more straightforward expression can often be more effective in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intolerable situation" functions as a noun phrase with an adjectival modifier. The adjective "intolerable" intensifies the noun "situation", denoting a state that is unbearable or unacceptable. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used to describe circumstances that demand change or resolution.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intolerable situation" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that describes a circumstance that is unbearable or unacceptable. Ludwig AI analysis and examples confirm its widespread use in news, encyclopedias and other sources. When using this phrase, providing specific details can enhance clarity and impact. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in overly casual contexts. Related phrases such as "unbearable circumstance" or "unacceptable condition" may offer more appropriate alternatives depending on the context. Overall, "intolerable situation" is a powerful phrase for emphasizing the severity and unacceptability of a given set of circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unbearable circumstance

Focuses on the feeling of not being able to bear the situation.

unacceptable condition

Highlights the unacceptability of the situation.

unsustainable state

Emphasizes the inability of the situation to continue.

insufferable predicament

Indicates a situation that is extremely unpleasant and difficult to bear.

impossible scenario

Suggests the situation cannot be realistically resolved or tolerated.

aggravating circumstances

Highlights aspects that make the situation worse and harder to deal with.

distressing state of affairs

Emphasizes the emotional distress caused by the situation.

untenable position

Focuses on the inability to defend or maintain the current situation.

unendurable hardship

Highlights the severe difficulty and suffering involved in the situation.

exasperating dilemma

Indicates a problem that is frustrating and difficult to solve.

FAQs

How can I use "intolerable situation" in a sentence?

You can use "intolerable situation" to describe any circumstance that is unbearable or unacceptable. For example: "The lack of access to clean water created an "intolerable situation" for the refugees."

What are some alternatives to "intolerable situation"?

Some alternatives include "unbearable circumstance", "unacceptable condition", or "unsustainable state", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "intolerable situation" or "unacceptable situation"?

"Intolerable situation" suggests a higher degree of severity and suffering than "unacceptable situation". Choose the phrase that best reflects the intensity of the situation you are describing.

What makes a situation truly qualify as an "intolerable situation"?

An "intolerable situation" is characterized by conditions that cause extreme suffering, injustice, or hardship, making it difficult or impossible for those affected to endure without significant negative consequences.