IPA

Dictionary definition of tolerate

To accept or endure something that is challenging, disagreeable, or contrary to one's preferences, beliefs, or values.
"Despite their ideological differences, they were able to tolerate each other's viewpoints."

Detailed meaning of tolerate

When someone tolerates a situation or behavior, they exhibit patience, restraint, or forbearance without necessarily endorsing or approving of it. Tolerance involves recognizing and respecting the rights, opinions, or actions of others, even if they differ from one's own. It implies a willingness to coexist or allow the existence of diverse viewpoints, practices, or circumstances without resorting to hostility, judgment, or interference. Tolerance does not imply agreement or endorsement, but rather a willingness to accommodate differences and maintain a peaceful or harmonious coexistence. The verb "tolerate" reflects a mindset of open-mindedness, acceptance, and respect for diversity, even in the face of challenging or uncomfortable situations.

Example sentences of tolerate

1. We should always tolerate different viewpoints to promote healthy discussions.
2. The professor will not tolerate any form of cheating during the examination.
3. The new system may tolerate a range of input errors without crashing.
4. Human rights are universal, and societies must tolerate diversity to thrive.
5. Even though they disagree politically, they tolerate each other's opinions for the sake of friendship.
6. How can you tolerate such injustice happening in your neighborhood?

History and etymology of tolerate

The verb 'tolerate' originates from the Latin word 'tolerare,' which means to bear, endure, or sustain. This Latin root captures the essence of the word's meaning as it pertains to accepting or enduring something that may be challenging, disagreeable, or contrary to one's preferences, beliefs, or values. Over time, as languages evolved, 'tolerate' entered Middle English, maintaining its fundamental concept of enduring or putting up with something. The term has come to symbolize the act of acknowledging and accommodating differences or discomforts without necessarily embracing them, highlighting the human capacity for patience and acceptance in the face of diversity or adversity.

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Further usage examples of tolerate

1. Parents often tolerate their children's antics with a patient smile.
2. We cannot tolerate pollution if we want to maintain the planet's health.
3. You should not tolerate rude behavior, no matter who the offender is.
4. Can your computer tolerate another software upgrade?
5. How long will the people tolerate this oppressive regime?
6. It's essential to tolerate ambiguity when solving complex problems.
7. Many people tolerate allergies without realizing the impact on their overall health.
8. We must tolerate the weather changes when planning outdoor events.
9. Can plants tolerate this level of salinity in the soil?
10. I will not tolerate any form of bullying in my classroom.
11. Will the community tolerate this kind of disruption to their daily lives?
12. In a pluralistic society, we should tolerate religious differences.
13. This hospital will not tolerate medical malpractice in any circumstance.
14. Only by learning to tolerate discomfort can we push beyond our limits.