Tolerate

Definition

Tolerate means to allow, endure, or accept something without interference, even if one does not agree with or like it. It can also refer to the ability of an organism to withstand particular environmental conditions.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɑləˌreɪt/
• Respelling: TOL-uh-rayt (with "TOL" as in "doll," "uh" as a schwa sound like the 'a' in "sofa," and "rayt" rhyming with "rate")

British English

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

In both dialects, "tolerate" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "TOL," which sounds like "doll." The pronunciation of "tolerate" is quite similar between American and British English, with the primary difference potentially being in the subtle nuances of the vowel sounds.

Etymology

The verb "tolerate" originates from the Latin word "toleratus", the past participle of "tolerare", which means "to bear" or "endure". This reflects the essence of the word, which is to bear or put up with something.

Derivatives

• Tolerance
• Tolerator
• Tolerable
• Intolerate (rare)
• Tolerantly

Synonyms

• Bear
• Endure
• Accept

Antonyms

• Oppose
• Resist
• Condemn

Usage

• "Tolerate" is often used in discussions about accepting differences, such as diverse beliefs or lifestyles.
• In biology, it might refer to an organism's ability to endure specific environmental conditions.

Related Terms

• Patience
• Forbearance
• Endurance
• Resistance
• Acceptance

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Allowance of Differences: To accept or endure (someone or something) without showing opposition or having adverse reactions, especially in situations where one might be expected to object.
• Example: Even if you don't agree with someone's opinion, it's essential to tolerate diverse viewpoints in a democratic society.

• Endurance of Adverse Conditions: To have or show the capacity to endure continued subjection to a particular situation, substance, or environment without adverse reactions.
• Example: Some plants tolerate drought better than others.

• Permissive Attitude: To allow something that is not specifically desired or liked, especially without trying to stop it.
• Example: The school does not tolerate bullying under any circumstances.