we can tolerate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can tolerate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability to endure or accept something that may be unpleasant or difficult. Example: "In our organization, we can tolerate differing opinions as long as they are expressed respectfully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

How much risk can we can tolerate?

The New York Times

"This is not something we can tolerate.

The New York Times

As a private company, we can tolerate more volatility".

The New York Times

"There's been a thousand movies about Elvis, we can tolerate a few more NWA movies".

The Guardian - Film

"Lamé." The way our language scissors the enormity to scales we can tolerate.

The New Yorker

"In a multiethnic society, if we understand one another, we can tolerate one another better".

The New York Times

T.R. was careful to add, "Nevertheless, torture is not a thing that we can tolerate".

The New York Times - Magazine

Then he smiled and said, "We can tolerate suffering much more than the Israelis can".

The New York Times

I'm glad we all get on now and we can tolerate each other".

The Guardian - Music

Still, he wrote, "torture is not a thing that we can tolerate".

The New Yorker

We can tolerate the vast sums paid to soccer heroes if they score beautiful goals.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we can tolerate" when expressing a willingness to accept or endure something, even if it's not ideal. Be mindful of the context to ensure it conveys the appropriate level of acceptance or resignation.

Common error

While "we can tolerate" is generally acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make your stance seem passive or unenthusiastic. Consider stronger verbs like "accept", "support", or "endorse" to convey more positive agreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can tolerate" functions as a statement of acceptance or endurance. Based on Ludwig's examples, it expresses a willingness to put up with something, even if it's not ideal. It indicates a threshold of acceptance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we can tolerate" is a versatile expression used to convey acceptance or endurance of something, even if it is not entirely desirable. It is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig. While it appears most often in news and media, its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal settings. Remember to consider stronger alternatives like "accept" or "support" for more enthusiastic agreement and be mindful of the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can permit

Replaces "tolerate" with "permit", suggesting a more formal allowance.

we can stand

Substitutes "tolerate" with "stand", implying endurance of something difficult.

we can allow

Replaces "tolerate" with "allow", indicating a more direct form of acceptance.

we can bear

Substitutes "tolerate" with "bear", emphasizing the ability to endure something unpleasant.

we can endure

Replaces "tolerate" with "endure", highlighting the capacity to withstand hardship.

we can accept

Substitutes "tolerate" with "accept", suggesting a more willing agreement.

we can withstand

Replaces "tolerate" with "withstand", focusing on resistance and endurance against pressure.

we can accommodate

Substitutes "tolerate" with "accommodate", implying an adjustment to fit something in.

we can suffer

Replaces "tolerate" with "suffer", suggesting a reluctant acceptance of something negative.

we can live with

This alternative, more informal, suggests an acceptance of something not ideal, but manageable.

FAQs

What does "we can tolerate" mean?

The phrase "we can tolerate" indicates an acceptance or endurance of something, even if it is not entirely desirable. It suggests a capacity to withstand or put up with a particular situation, behavior, or condition.

How to use "we can tolerate" in a sentence?

You can use "we can tolerate" to express acceptance or endurance. For example: "We can tolerate some delays, but not if they become excessive" or "we can tolerate minor inconveniences if it means a better outcome".

What can I say instead of "we can tolerate"?

You can use alternatives like "we can accept", "we can endure", or "we can allow" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "we can tolerate" and "we must tolerate"?

"We can tolerate" implies a capacity or willingness to endure, while "we must tolerate" suggests a necessity or obligation to endure, often due to a lack of alternatives. The latter conveys a stronger sense of obligation.