VocabDictionary

intolerance

/ɪnˈtɒl.ər.əns/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Unwillingness to accept or respect views, beliefs, or behavior that differ from one's own.

Example Sentences:
  • The organization was founded to combat religious intolerance and promote interfaith dialogue.
  • His intolerance of criticism made it difficult for his team to provide honest feedback.
2.noun

An inability or physiological reaction that prevents the body from consuming or using a specific substance.

Example Sentences:
  • She has a severe lactose intolerance and must avoid all dairy products.
  • The patient's intolerance to the medication forced the doctor to switch to a different treatment plan.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “intolerance”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'intolerantia', formed by the prefix 'in-' (not) and 'tolerare' (to bear, endure, or tolerate). It entered Middle French as 'intolérance' before appearing in English in the early 17th century, originally used primarily in religious contexts to describe a refusal to allow beliefs or practices different from one's own.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'in-' (not) + 'tolerance' (putting up with something); if you have no tolerance, you cannot put up with others' differences.

Frequently Asked Questions About “intolerance

1. What is the meaning of “intolerance” in English?

In English, intolerance (noun) is defined as: “Unwillingness to accept or respect views, beliefs, or behavior that differ from one's own.”.

2. How do you use “intolerance” in a sentence?

The organization was founded to combat religious intolerance and promote interfaith dialogue.

3. What are English synonyms of “intolerance”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “intolerance”?

Derived from the Latin 'intolerantia', formed by the prefix 'in-' (not) and 'tolerare' (to bear, endure, or tolerate). It entered Middle French as 'intolérance' before appearing in English in the early 17th century, originally used primarily in religious contexts to describe a refusal to allow beliefs or practices different from one's own.