When expanding your vocabulary, understanding how verbs transform into nouns is a valuable skill. One commonly used verb in both formal and informal English is tolerate. Whether you’re writing an essay, speaking in a debate, or simply trying to express yourself more precisely, knowing the noun form of tolerate can help you articulate ideas more effectively. This topic will explore the noun forms of tolerate, how to use them, and examples that highlight their proper usage in different contexts.
The Basic Noun Form of Tolerate
The main noun form of the verb tolerate istolerance. This word is widely used across many fields including education, medicine, politics, and daily communication. It refers to the ability or willingness to accept something, especially opinions, behaviors, or conditions that one may not agree with or like.
Definition of Tolerance
Tolerance (noun)The capacity to endure continued subjection to something, especially without adverse reaction or complaint; the willingness to accept feelings, habits, or beliefs that are different from your own.
Example Sentences with Tolerance
- Her tolerance for spicy food is impressive.
- The school promotes cultural tolerance through various student programs.
- He showed great tolerance by listening calmly to opposing views.
- The medication helped increase his pain tolerance.
- Social tolerance is essential in a diverse society.
Other Noun Forms Related to Tolerate
While tolerance is the most common noun form, there are also other related nouns that stem from the same root and carry specific meanings in particular contexts. These include toleration and tolerant (used as an adjective, but in noun form in rare usage).
Toleration
Toleration is another noun form, though it is used less frequently than tolerance. It often appears in more formal, historical, or political contexts, particularly when referring to official permission or allowance rather than a personal attitude.
Definition of Toleration
Toleration (noun)The action of allowing something to exist or happen, especially something one does not necessarily agree with.
Example Sentences with Toleration
- The government adopted a policy of religious toleration in the 18th century.
- Limited toleration of dissenting voices was permitted under the regime.
- The concept of toleration played a major role in shaping modern democratic principles.
Subtle Differences Between Tolerance and Toleration
Although these two words are close in meaning, they are not always interchangeable. Tolerance is more common in everyday speech and often refers to personal attitudes. Toleration tends to refer to an official or institutional acceptance of practices, beliefs, or groups.
- ToleranceHe showed great tolerance toward people from different backgrounds.
- TolerationThe king allowed toleration of different religions within his kingdom.
Using the Noun Tolerance in Different Contexts
To become more familiar with this word, it’s useful to see how tolerance functions in different areas of communication. The context can change the exact nuance of the word.
In Social and Cultural Settings
- Cultural tolerance is key to peaceful coexistence.
- Workshops were held to increase racial and religious tolerance.
In Medical and Scientific Contexts
- The patient developed a high tolerance for the pain medication.
- Lactose tolerance varies significantly from person to person.
In Political and Legal Discourse
- The constitution guarantees freedom and tolerance of all beliefs.
- Laws promoting religious toleration were passed after years of conflict.
In Environmental and Technical Contexts
- Plants with a high salt tolerance can survive in harsh soil conditions.
- The machine has a tight tolerance for error in its parts.
Derivatives and Related Terms
Studying related forms of a word helps deepen understanding and vocabulary flexibility. Here are some commonly associated forms
- Tolerate (verb)To accept or endure something unpleasant or different.
- Tolerant (adjective)Showing willingness to accept views, beliefs, or behaviors different from one’s own.
- Intolerance (noun)Unwillingness to accept views or behaviors different from one’s own.
- Intolerant (adjective)Not accepting of differences or diversity.
Examples Using Related Forms
- She does not tolerate any form of discrimination. (verb)
- He is known for being very tolerant of others’ mistakes. (adjective)
- Intolerance often leads to social conflict. (noun)
- His intolerant attitude created tension in the group. (adjective)
Common Expressions and Phrases with Tolerance
Using idiomatic or common phrases with a word improves fluency and naturalness in speech or writing. Below are expressions that feature tolerance in a meaningful way
- Build toleranceOver time, she built a tolerance to the harsh weather.
- Have no tolerance forThe teacher has no tolerance for cheating.
- Test one’s toleranceLiving in a noisy neighborhood tested his tolerance.
- Level of toleranceEach person has a different level of tolerance for stress.
Exercises to Practice Using Tolerance
Fill in the Blank
- The manager showed great _________ during the busy holiday season.
- _________ of opposing opinions is crucial in a democratic society.
- Some people have a lower pain _________ than others.
Rewrite the Sentences
Change the verb tolerate into a noun form
- They tolerate loud music at the festival.
- She cannot tolerate injustice.
- We should learn to tolerate people from all cultures.
The noun form of tolerate is essential for clear and precise expression in many contexts. The primary noun is tolerance, used widely to describe the ability to accept differences, endure hardship, or maintain composure. A more formal or historical variation is toleration, often seen in legal or political language. Understanding how to use these forms correctly and fluently not only improves your vocabulary but also enhances your writing and speaking skills. Whether you’re writing a persuasive essay, speaking in a meeting, or simply describing your limits, mastering the noun form of tolerate adds strength to your communication.