lack of tolerance

USAGE SUMMARY

"lack of tolerance" is a common and correct phrase in written English.
It refers to the absence or deficiency of the ability to accept or tolerate something or someone. You can use "lack of tolerance" to describe a situation where there is a lack of understanding and acceptance among different groups of people. For example: "The recent increase in hate crimes is a result of the society's lack of tolerance towards diversity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It shows misunderstanding, or a lack of tolerance".

The New York Times

His books are an inspiration, particularly in this current climate of a lack of tolerance.

The Guardian

We saw that lack of tolerance in the reaction against Mapplethorpe's pictures.

The New Yorker

"We must not be deluded: a lack of tolerance will lead us to disaster.

The Guardian

What is worrying is the lack of tolerance these groups exhibit for each other.

The Guardian - Opinion

The root of the problem is discrimination in school and a lack of tolerance.

The Guardian - Books

Does it make sense to say that lack of tolerance is a major cause of the Holocaust?

The New York Times - Arts

This happens for whatever reason — shortness of attention span, lack of tolerance or narrowness of taste.

The New York Times - Arts

"His lack of tolerance, his limitation, comes out in a certain kind of a way, but not with actors.

The New York Times - Arts

I walk up to Bikram with trepidation, knowing his lack of tolerance for people who abuse their bodies.

The New York Times

Vettel has been increasingly vocal over the team radio with a growing lack of tolerance for a variety of situations as the season has gone on.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To write with precision, specify what is being lacked. For example, instead of saying "there is a lack of tolerance" you can state what the lack of tolerance is 'towards LGBTQ+ people', 'towards other opinions', etc.

Common error

Avoid using "lack of tolerance" without specifying the context or target. Overgeneralizations can lead to misinterpretations and weaken the argument. Instead, clarify the specific area where tolerance is lacking, such as "lack of tolerance for dissenting opinions" or "lack of tolerance towards religious minorities".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of tolerance" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it denotes the absence of acceptance or the inability to endure something. For example, "The root of the problem is discrimination in school and a lack of tolerance."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of tolerance" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression referring to the absence of acceptance or forbearance. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts. It functions as a noun phrase, typically describing a deficiency in accepting diverse views or behaviors. While versatile in register, it appears most frequently in news and media and scientific contexts. Related terms include "intolerance" and "narrow-mindedness". When using the phrase, it is important to provide specific context to avoid overgeneralizations. By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and potential pitfalls, writers can effectively employ "lack of tolerance" to convey nuanced meanings in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intolerance

A more concise and direct synonym for "lack of tolerance".

lack of acceptance

Highlights the absence of welcoming or approving something or someone.

absence of understanding

Focuses on the missing comprehension that leads to a "lack of tolerance".

narrow-mindedness

Highlights the restrictive mindset associated with a "lack of tolerance".

lack of empathy

Focuses on the absence of understanding and sharing the feelings of another, contributing to "lack of tolerance".

absence of compassion

Highlights the missing sympathy that can lead to a "lack of tolerance".

close-mindedness

Similar to narrow-mindedness, emphasizes resistance to new ideas or perspectives.

bigotry

Emphasizes prejudice and discrimination, core components of a "lack of tolerance".

prejudice

Focuses on preconceived, often negative, judgments, a key aspect of "lack of tolerance".

failure to respect diversity

Specifically addresses the inability to appreciate differences.

FAQs

How can I use "lack of tolerance" in a sentence?

You can use "lack of tolerance" to describe situations where there is an absence of acceptance or understanding. For example, "The organization's "lack of tolerance" for differing opinions stifled creativity".

What are some alternatives to saying "lack of tolerance"?

Alternatives to "lack of tolerance" include "intolerance", "narrow-mindedness", or "prejudice", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "lack of tolerance" or "intolerance"?

"Lack of tolerance" and "intolerance" are often interchangeable, but "lack of tolerance" can sometimes sound less accusatory. "Intolerance" directly implies active opposition, while "lack of tolerance" can suggest a more passive absence of acceptance.

What causes a "lack of tolerance" in society?

A "lack of tolerance" can stem from various factors, including fear of the unknown, misinformation, cultural conditioning, and historical conflicts. Addressing these underlying causes is crucial for fostering a more inclusive society.