no patience

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "no patience" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a lack of tolerance or ability to remain calm in a situation. Example: "Mary had no patience for her children's constant bickering and sent them to their rooms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His father had no patience.

The New Yorker

Mr. Glass has no patience.

The New York Times

There ain't no patience here.

The New York Times - Sports

He had no patience for conceptual art.

The New Yorker

He had no patience with unsuccessful men.

The Guardian - Books

He had no patience with camouflage.

The Economist

She had no patience with my chatterings.

The New York Times

I used to have no patience.

The New Yorker

He had no patience for it.

The New Yorker

Falafel has no patience for memorization.

The New Yorker

Judge Glenn has no patience with this.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character's personality, using "no patience" can effectively convey their quick-tempered or demanding nature. For example: "He had "no patience" for slow drivers and would often tailgate aggressively."

Common error

Avoid using "no patience" interchangeably with "lack of understanding". While impatience can stem from a failure to understand, the phrase specifically denotes a lack of tolerance for delays or imperfections, not a cognitive deficit.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "no patience" primarily functions as a descriptor, indicating a deficiency in one's ability to tolerate delays, frustrations, or imperfections. Ludwig provides ample examples demonstrating its use in characterizing individuals, situations, and even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The analysis reveals that "no patience" is a grammatically sound and very common phrase primarily used in News & Media to describe a lack of tolerance or the inability to remain calm. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is versatile and can be used in various contexts to characterize people or situations. While it is generally neutral in register, the phrase leans towards informal depending on the context. When writing, remember that alternatives like "lack of patience" or "intolerance" may suit more formal tones. The phrase should not be confused with cognitive abilities, but is useful in pointing out a quick temper.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of patience

More formal and directly states the absence of patience.

limited tolerance

Indicates that there is some patience, but it is quickly exhausted.

absence of forbearance

Emphasizes a lack of restraint or tolerance, which is a more formal and less common way to express impatience.

cannot tolerate

Expresses an inability to endure or accept something, suggesting a stronger aversion.

intolerance

Highlights the unwillingness to accept delays or imperfections.

short fuse

An idiomatic expression indicating a quick temper or low tolerance for frustration.

easily irritated

Focuses on the ease with which someone becomes annoyed or impatient.

zero tolerance

Emphasizes a complete lack of acceptance for something, often used in formal contexts.

cannot be bothered

Indicates a lack of willingness to engage or wait, suggesting apathy rather than just impatience.

want it now

Captures the essence of demanding immediate results, suggesting a sense of entitlement or urgency.

FAQs

How can I use "no patience" in a sentence?

You can use "no patience" to describe someone's intolerance or inability to wait calmly. For example, "She has "no patience" for people who are late."

What are some alternatives to saying "no patience"?

Alternatives include phrases like "lack of patience", "intolerance", or "short fuse", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "have no patience" or "has no patience"?

Both are grammatically correct, but the choice depends on the subject. Use "have "no patience"" with plural subjects (e.g., "They have "no patience"") and "has "no patience"" with singular subjects (e.g., "She has "no patience"").

What's the difference between "no patience" and "lack of patience"?

"No patience" is a more direct and informal way of saying "lack of patience". Both convey the same meaning, but the latter is slightly more formal.