Tolerance

Definition

Tolerance refers to the acceptance and respect for differences, whether they be of opinions, practices, or characteristics, without interference or prejudice. It can also mean the ability or capacity to endure continued subjection to a particular substance or condition without adverse reactions.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɑlərəns/
• Respelling: TOL-uh-ruhns (with "TOL" as in "doll," "uh" as a schwa sound like the 'a' in "sofa," and "ruhns" as in "runs")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɒlərəns/
• Respelling: TOL-uh-ruhns (similar to American English, with "TOL" as in "doll," "uh" as in "sofa," and "ruhns" like in "runs")

In both dialects, "tolerance" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "TOL," which sounds like "doll." The word is consistent across both American and British English, with slight variations in the vowel sounds due to accent differences.

Etymology

The term "tolerance" derives from the Latin word "tolerantia", which means "endurance" or "suffering". Historically, it referred to the act of enduring pain or hardship. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the acceptance and understanding of differences.

Derivatives

• Tolerant
• Intolerance
• Tolerability
• Tolerate
• Tolerantly

Synonyms

• Acceptance
• Forbearance
• Patience

Antonyms

• Intolerance
• Impatience
• Prejudice

Usage

• "Tolerance" is often used in sociopolitical contexts to discuss acceptance of diverse cultures, religions, and lifestyles.
• In medicine, "tolerance" refers to the body's diminished response to a drug after repeated use.

Related Terms

• Empathy
• Inclusion
• Diversity
• Adaptation
• Resistance

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Acceptance of Differences: A fair, objective, and permissive attitude towards those whose opinions, practices, or characteristics differ from one's own.
• Example: Societies that value tolerance tend to have fewer conflicts.

• Endurance Capacity: The capacity to endure or become less responsive to a substance or stimulus, especially over time or through frequent exposure.
• Example: Prolonged exposure to certain medications can lead to drug tolerance.

• Allowable Deviation: In engineering and manufacturing, it refers to the permissible limit or limits of variation in an object or process.
• Example: The machine parts were manufactured with a high degree of tolerance.