What is tolerant? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "tolerant" in English. It's a nuanced word with a few different meanings and shades of usage. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Core Meaning: Accepting of Differences

• Definition: At its simplest, "tolerant" means willing to allow or accept beliefs or behavior that one does not necessarily agree with. It’s about not being hostile or judgmental towards things that are different.

• Examples:

  • "She's a very tolerant person and welcomes people from all walks of life." (She doesn't judge based on background.)
  • "The school aims to create a tolerant environment where students can express their diverse opinions." (They promote acceptance of different viewpoints.)
  • “He’s tolerant of his roommate’s messy habits.” (He doesn’t get annoyed.)

2. Tolerance (as in, putting up with something difficult)

• Definition: "Tolerant" can also describe someone who can bear or withstand something unpleasant or difficult, often without complaint. This usage implies a degree of patience and fortitude.

• Examples:

  • "She’s remarkably tolerant of the noise from the construction site next door.” (She doesn't mind the noise.)
  • “He showed a lot of tolerance during the difficult pregnancy.” (He put up with the challenges.)

3. Tolerance (as in, a degree of acceptance - often in relation to opinions)

• Definition: This is frequently used in discussions about social issues, politics, and religion. It refers to accepting different viewpoints, even if you disagree with them. It doesn't mean agreeing with those viewpoints, but it does mean respecting the right of others to hold them.

• Examples:

  • "We need to foster a more tolerant society where people are free to express their religious beliefs." (Respecting different beliefs.)
  • "The government’s policies are criticized for lacking tolerance towards minority groups." (Not being discriminatory.)
  • "It’s important to be tolerant of opposing political views, even when you strongly disagree.” (Accepting different political perspectives).

4. As an Adjective Describing a Person

• Definition: "A tolerant person" is someone who possesses the qualities described above – someone who accepts and respects differences.

• Examples:

  • "He's a truly tolerant individual and a pleasure to be around."
  • "She demonstrated a tolerant attitude during the stressful situation."

Important Distinctions & Related Words:

• Tolerance vs. Acceptance: While often used interchangeably, "acceptance" can sometimes imply agreement, whereas “tolerance” more strongly implies allowing differences to exist.

• Open-mindedness: This is closely related to tolerance. It refers to being receptive to new ideas and perspectives.

• Discrimination: The opposite of tolerance; it involves treating people unfairly based on their differences.

• Intolerance: This describes a lack of tolerance – hostility or prejudice against those who are different.

Tips for Using "Tolerant" Effectively:

• Consider the Context: The specific meaning of "tolerant" depends heavily on the situation.
• Be Specific: Instead of just saying “She’s tolerant,” you might say “She’s tolerant of his quirky sense of humor” or “She’s tolerant of differing political opinions.”
• Show, Don’t Just Tell: Instead of saying "He's a tolerant person," describe how he acts tolerantly (e.g., “He always listens to other people’s opinions, even when he disagrees with them.”)

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Resources for Further Learning:

• Merriam-Webster Dictionary: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tolerant
• Collins Dictionary: https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/tolerant

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