What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tolerance
Example
I have a high tolerance for spicy food. [tolerance: noun]
Example
We need to show tolerance towards people who have different opinions than us. [tolerance: noun]
Example
She demonstrated great tolerance in dealing with the difficult situation. [tolerance: noun]
acceptance
Example
The company sent me an acceptance letter for the job. [acceptance: noun]
Example
I have come to accept that I cannot change the past. [accept: verb]
Example
She found acceptance in her community after years of feeling like an outsider. [acceptance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tolerance is more commonly used than acceptance in everyday language. Tolerance is often used in discussions about diversity, while acceptance is more commonly used in personal development and self-help contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tolerance and acceptance?
Both tolerance and acceptance can be used in formal and informal contexts, but acceptance may be seen as more formal due to its association with psychology and personal development.