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intolérable

intolerable, unbearable

adjective an-toh-leh-RAH-bl Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Degree

Origin: Latin 'in-' + 'tolerare' (not to be borne)

Usage Note

Intolérable is invariable in gender (same form for masculine and feminine) but takes a plural intolérables. It typically describes a situation, pain, or behaviour pushed beyond acceptable limits. The noun is l'intolérance and the antonym is tolérable. It is slightly stronger and more formal than insupportable.

Examples

"La chaleur dans le bureau était intolérable."

Natural Translation

The heat in the office was intolerable.

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