Being tolerant means respecting the rights of others to think or act differently than you do.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Accepting beliefs or behaviors different from your own.
- Showing patience toward things you do not agree with.
- Resistant or capable of enduring difficult conditions.
Overview
The word 'tolerant' is an essential adjective used to describe someone who remains patient and accepting of ideas or practices they may not necessarily agree with. It is a positive trait often associated with maturity, empathy, and social harmony. 2) Usage Patterns: You will frequently see this word used with the preposition 'of' (e.g., 'tolerant of different viewpoints'). It is often used to describe individuals, societies, or even biological systems, such as a plant being 'tolerant of drought.' 3) Common Contexts: In social contexts, it is used to discuss politics, religion, and cultural inclusivity. In professional settings, a 'tolerant' manager is one who accepts different working styles. In scientific or environmental contexts, it refers to the capacity to endure harsh conditions. 4) Similar Words comparison: While 'tolerant' suggests a passive acceptance of differences, 'accepting' implies a more active, warm embrace of those differences. 'Open-minded' is a related concept, but specifically refers to a willingness to consider new ideas, whereas 'tolerant' focuses on the endurance of existing differences.
Examples
She is very tolerant of her younger brother's loud music.
everydayShe is very tolerant of her younger brother's loud music.
The company maintains a tolerant policy regarding flexible working hours.
formalThe company maintains a tolerant policy regarding flexible working hours.
These plants are highly tolerant of dry soil.
academicThese plants are highly tolerant of dry soil.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
zero tolerance
a policy of no leniency
Often Confused With
Tolerable means something is 'acceptable' or 'bearable' (e.g., the weather was tolerable). Tolerant describes a person's character.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word is neutral to positive in register. It is commonly used in both casual conversation and formal political discourse. Ensure you use the preposition 'of' to connect it to the object.
Common Mistakes
Students often use 'tolerant to' instead of 'tolerant of'. Also, do not confuse it with 'tolerable', which describes the quality of a situation rather than the attitude of a person.
Tips
Use the preposition 'of'
Always remember to follow 'tolerant' with 'of' when describing what you are accepting. For example, say 'He is tolerant of noise' rather than 'He is tolerant to noise'.
Avoid negative connotations
Sometimes, being 'too tolerant' can imply a lack of standards or an inability to stand up for one's own values. Use it carefully in business contexts.
A global value
Tolerance is considered a foundational value in many democratic societies. It is often cited as a requirement for peaceful coexistence in multicultural cities.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'tolerare', meaning 'to endure' or 'to put up with'. It entered English in the 16th century.
Cultural Context
In many Western cultures, tolerance is a key virtue taught in schools. It is seen as essential for maintaining peace in diverse communities.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'T' in Tolerant as 'Taking' other people's ideas. You take them in instead of pushing them away.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsNo, they are very different. Tolerance means you allow others to have their own views even if you strongly disagree with them.
Yes, it is often used in science to describe how well something handles stress. For example, a 'drought-tolerant' plant can survive without much water.
The opposite is an 'intolerant' person. This describes someone who is unwilling to accept views or behaviors that differ from their own.
Test Yourself
The school promotes a ___ environment where students from all backgrounds feel welcome.
We need an adjective to describe the environment.
Score: /1
Summary
Being tolerant means respecting the rights of others to think or act differently than you do.
- Accepting beliefs or behaviors different from your own.
- Showing patience toward things you do not agree with.
- Resistant or capable of enduring difficult conditions.
Use the preposition 'of'
Always remember to follow 'tolerant' with 'of' when describing what you are accepting. For example, say 'He is tolerant of noise' rather than 'He is tolerant to noise'.
Avoid negative connotations
Sometimes, being 'too tolerant' can imply a lack of standards or an inability to stand up for one's own values. Use it carefully in business contexts.
A global value
Tolerance is considered a foundational value in many democratic societies. It is often cited as a requirement for peaceful coexistence in multicultural cities.
Examples
3 of 3She is very tolerant of her younger brother's loud music.
She is very tolerant of her younger brother's loud music.
The company maintains a tolerant policy regarding flexible working hours.
The company maintains a tolerant policy regarding flexible working hours.
These plants are highly tolerant of dry soil.
These plants are highly tolerant of dry soil.
