intolerance
in-TOL-er-unss
/ɪnˈtɒl.ər.əns/
Unwillingness to accept views, beliefs, or behavior that differ from one's own.
Refers to active hostility, prejudice, or refusal to grant equal standing to differing opinions or identities.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'in-' (not) + 'tolerare' (to bear or endure). Originally used in biological and physical contexts (inability to bear heat or pain), it entered social and religious commentary during the Enlightenment to describe refusal to permit nonconforming religious practices.
Word relationships
- bigotry: Implies obstinate attachment to preconceptions and active hatred toward specific groups.
- prejudice: Prejudged opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.
- tolerance: Ability or willingness to tolerate differing opinions or behavior.
- acceptance: Favorable reception or approval of diversity.
Commonly confused with
- impatience: Impatience relates to irritation over delays; intolerance relates to refusal to endure differing beliefs or traits.
Word family
- intolerant (adjective): Not tolerant of views differ from one's own.
- tolerate (verb): To allow the existence of opinions or behavior that one does not necessarily agree with.
Collocations
- zero tolerance
- religious intolerance
- growing intolerance
Example sentences
- "Religious intolerance has fueled centuries of regional conflict and displaced millions." Sociological analysis
- "A healthy democratic society must foster dialogue and actively combat bigotry and intolerance." Civic discourse
Memory hook
IN-TOLERANCE means you CANNOT TOLERATE any differences. Refusal to bear differences.
When not to use
Do not confuse medical intolerance (e.g., lactose intolerance) with social/ideological intolerance without clear context.
Fun facts
- Philosopher Karl Popper introduced the 'Paradox of Tolerance': if a society is tolerant without limit, its ability to be tolerant will eventually be seized or destroyed by the intolerant.
Related words
Explore more words
tolerant, intransigence, broad-minded, Intransigent, aversion, sectarian
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