The verb "tolerar" means to allow the existence, occurrence, or practice of something that one does not necessarily like or agree with. It often implies a sense of endurance or acceptance in the face of discomfort or annoyance. "Tolerar" is frequently used both in oral speech and written contexts in Spanish. Its usage can be observed across various domains, including everyday conversations, discussions about rights and freedoms, and even in legal settings regarding the limits of tolerating certain behaviors.
"Tolerar" is relatively common in both informal and formal contexts due to its significance in discussions surrounding social issues, relationships, and political situations.
No puedo tolerar la injusticia en nuestra sociedad.
I cannot tolerate injustice in our society.
Ella debe aprender a tolerar las críticas constructivas.
She needs to learn to tolerate constructive criticism.
Es importante tolerar las diferencias culturales.
It is important to tolerate cultural differences.
While "tolerar" may not be as commonly found in frequently used idioms, it's often used in phrases that reflect broader themes of acceptance and endurance.
A veces tenemos que tolerar a regañadientes la opinión de los demás.
Sometimes we have to tolerate others' opinions reluctantly.
Tolerar el aburrimiento.
To tolerate boredom.
Durante la larga espera, tuvo que tolerar el aburrimiento.
During the long wait, he had to tolerate boredom.
Tolerar con paciencia.
To tolerate patiently.
Es fundamental tolerar con paciencia las dificultades de la vida.
It is essential to tolerate life's difficulties patiently.
Tolerar sin quejarse.
To tolerate without complaining.
The word "tolerar" originates from the Latin verb "tolerare," which is formed from "toler-" (from "tollere," meaning to lift or raise) and the suffix "-are," which is typical for Latin first conjugation verbs. The original connotation involved a sense of lifting burdens or difficulties.