What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intolerable
Example
The heat in the room was intolerable, and I had to leave. [intolerable: adjective]
Example
The noise from the construction site was intolerable, and I couldn't concentrate on my work. [intolerable: adjective]
unbearable
Example
The pain in my leg was unbearable, and I had to go to the hospital. [unbearable: adjective]
Example
The grief of losing her husband was unbearable, and she couldn't stop crying. [unbearable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unbearable is more commonly used than intolerable in everyday language. Unbearable is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while intolerable is less common and may be used in more formal or serious contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between intolerable and unbearable?
While intolerable may have a more formal or serious connotation, both words can be used in various formality levels, allowing them to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
