tolerance

USAGE SUMMARY

'tolerance' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to refer to the capacity to endure pain, difficulty, or inconvenience or to a fair, objective and permissive attitude towards those whose opinions, practices, race, religion, nationality, etc., differ from one's own. For example: "A key to a peaceful world is to develop greater tolerance for those who think differently than us."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Politics

Society

Opinion

Music

Sport

Tech

Arts

World

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Psychiatric care is becoming a consumer good in a society in which there is a low tolerance for frustration and adversity," said one Spain-based doctor whose identity has been verified but who wanted to remain anonymous.

The Guardian

We should show our own strength and belief in the values of democracy and tolerance, and above all we should demonstrate that the future, however hard the path to it is, does not, and never will, belong to fanatics but will be with those who believe that we should live in peace with each other, whatever our race, nation, colour or religion.

The Guardian

"Fairness means that everyone should pay their taxes, zero tolerance of evasion and aggressive avoidance.

The Guardian

Disagreements over language issues, parades and other events must be resolved if the stability and tolerance we all want to see are to be realised.

The Guardian

Only time will tell if these spirits will, unfettered, demonstrate mutual tolerance.

The Guardian - Opinion

"But if the immediate answer in the Senate is no then I think the Australian people have a low, low tolerance for that.

The Guardian

"They are coming together to rebuild a strong, Liberal Democrat party, showing that the politics of hope and tolerance can thrive in the face of the politics of grievance and fear".

The Guardian

Macklemore said of the song: "It is a message of equality, tolerance and compassion to end homophobia, fear and hatred that has been an institution here in America.

The Guardian - Music

Germany's chancellor, Angela Merkel, has called the recent incidents "an attack on freedom and tolerance and our democratic state".

The Guardian

(One wonders if Brown squirmed in his seat as her songs cut through his image of a Britishness fashioned out of values of tolerance and fair play to expose the violence that had really forged the nation).

The Guardian - Opinion

As a great, multicultural world city, London need not defend English monoculture or spurn the diversity and tolerance that are a key to municipal success.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In scientific contexts, use "tolerance" to describe an organism's ability to withstand certain conditions or substances without adverse effects.

Common error

Avoid implying that "tolerance" means condoning or approving of behaviors or beliefs. "Tolerance" simply means respecting the right of others to hold those beliefs, even if you disagree.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "tolerance" is as a noun, referring to the ability to endure hardship, or the acceptance of differing views. Ludwig AI validates its correctness in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Opinion

10%

Lifestyle

8%

Less common in

Sport

3%

Tech

2%

World

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Tolerance" is a versatile noun signifying the ability to endure hardship or the acceptance of differing views. As validated by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Opinion and Lifestyle. While "tolerance" is often used to promote peaceful coexistence, it's essential to distinguish it from "approval". Related terms include "understanding", "patience" and "open-mindedness", each offering a nuanced perspective on the core concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

understanding

Highlights the ability to comprehend and appreciate the feelings and perspectives of others.

acceptance

Focuses more on the act of willingly receiving something offered or situations as they are.

open-mindedness

Emphasizes a willingness to consider different ideas and perspectives.

forbearance

Implies patience and restraint in the face of provocation or offense.

compassion

Focuses on showing empathy and concern for those who are suffering.

patience

Emphasizes the ability to endure delays or suffering without becoming annoyed or upset.

permissiveness

Suggests allowing behavior or actions that others might disapprove of.

leniency

Implies mildness or gentleness when administering justice or punishment.

magnanimity

Suggests generosity and forgivingness, especially towards a rival or someone less powerful than oneself.

liberalism

Refers to a political or social philosophy advocating individual freedom, equality, and "tolerance".

FAQs

How is "tolerance" used in political discourse?

In political discourse, "tolerance" often refers to the acceptance and respect for different political views and ideologies. It's a cornerstone of democratic societies, encouraging peaceful coexistence despite disagreements.

What's the difference between "tolerance" and "acceptance"?

"Tolerance" implies bearing with something even if you disagree with it, while "acceptance" suggests a more positive and willing embrace of something. You can tolerate something without fully accepting it.

What are some synonyms for "tolerance"?

Synonyms for "tolerance" include "understanding", "patience", "forbearance", and "open-mindedness". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is a "zero tolerance" policy common?

A "zero tolerance" policy is often implemented in schools, workplaces, and other institutions to address issues such as violence, bullying, or drug use. It means there is no leniency for any violation of the rules.