intolerable
“intolerable” means “unbearable” in Spanish (when a situation or feeling cannot be endured).
unbearable, intolerable
Also: insufferable
📝 In Action
El ruido de la construcción es intolerable.
A2The construction noise is unbearable.
Tienen unas condiciones de trabajo intolerables.
B1They have intolerable working conditions.
Su falta de respeto es simplemente intolerable.
B2His lack of respect is simply insufferable.
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Quick Quiz: intolerable
Question 1 of 3
If you are describing a feminine noun like 'una actitud' (an attitude), how do you spell the word?
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👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'intolerabilis', combining 'in-' (not) and 'tolerabilis' (able to be endured). It shares the same roots as the English word.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'intolerable' more formal than 'insoportable'?
Slightly. While both are used in daily speech, 'intolerable' is often found in news reports or formal complaints, whereas 'insoportable' is very common in emotional, casual contexts.
Can I use 'intolerable' to describe a person?
Yes, but it's very harsh. It implies that being around them is a burden that cannot be borne. If you just mean they are closed-minded, 'intolerante' is the better word.
Does it have a plural form?
Yes! Just add 's' to make it 'intolerables' when describing more than one thing, like 'problemas intolerables'.