What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
forbearance
Example
His forbearance in the face of criticism was admirable. [forbearance: noun]
Example
She showed great forbearance by not responding to his insults. [forbearance: noun]
patience
Example
I need to have patience while waiting for the results. [patience: noun]
Example
She patiently explained the instructions to the new employee. [patiently: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Patience is more commonly used than forbearance in everyday language. Patience is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while forbearance is less common and often used in formal or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between forbearance and patience?
Forbearance is typically associated with a formal or legal tone, while patience can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more versatile word.