long-suffering
LONG-suf-er-ing
/ˌlɒŋˈsʌfərɪŋ/
Bearing problems, pain, or annoying behavior patiently over a prolonged period.
Implies ongoing endurance of difficulty caused by another person or chronic situation without complaining.
The story behind the word. First coined in Middle English biblical translations as a literal render of the Greek 'makrothumia' ('makros' long + 'thumos' spirit/passion). It was used to translate God's patience toward human flaws.
Word relationships
- patient: Patient can apply to brief waiting; long-suffering requires prolonged, ongoing hardship.
- forbearing: Forbearing emphasizes active restraint from anger; long-suffering emphasizes the continuous duration of trial.
- impatient: Unable to tolerate delay or annoyance.
- intolerant: Refusing to endure unpleasant conditions.
Commonly confused with
- suffering: Suffering is the general state of experiencing pain; long-suffering describes patient endurance of pain over time.
Word family
- long-suffering (noun): Patient endurance of hardship over time.
Collocations
- long-suffering wife
- long-suffering husband
- long-suffering assistant
- long-suffering patience
Idioms & expressions
- bear the cross
- have the patience of Job
Example sentences
- "The long-suffering executive assistant organized the CEO's disorganized schedule for twenty years without complaint." Workplace relationships
- "Her long-suffering spouse patiently cleaned up after every one of his chaotic hobby projects." Family dynamics
Memory hook
SUFFERING for a LONG time without throwing a fit. Enduring chronic headaches with a gentle smile.
When not to use
Do not use for short-term acute pain or sudden brief delays.
Fun facts
- William Tyndale used 'long-suffering' extensively in his 1526 English translation of the New Testament, solidifying it in the language.
Related words
Explore more words
chronic, fortitude, endurance, perseverance, abiding, chronically
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