Understanding ‘Intolerant’: Key SAT Vocabulary Word Explained
Learn the meaning, usage, and importance of the word ‘intolerant’ for your SAT preparation. This video covers the definition, word type, etymology, synonyms, antonyms, example sentences, and common usage errors of ‘intolerant’. Improve your vocabulary and comprehension skills for the SAT and beyond.
Imagine a world where everyone refuses to accept opinions different from their own. This is the essence of being intolerant, a crucial word to understand for your SAT vocabulary.
Word type: Intolerant is an adjective.
Meaning: Intolerant describes someone who is unwilling to accept or respect beliefs, opinions, or behaviors that differ from their own.
It can also refer to someone unable to eat certain foods or take certain medicines without adverse effects.
Word history: The word intolerant comes from the Latin in meaning not, and tolerare meaning to bear or endure.
It entered the English language in the early seventeenth century, initially used to describe someone unable to endure hardship.
Over time, its meaning evolved to encompass the idea of not accepting differences in opinions or behaviors.
Antonyms: Some antonyms of intolerant include tolerant, accepting, open-minded, and understanding.
Synonyms: Synonyms for intolerant include narrow-minded, bigoted, prejudiced, and biased.
Examples use in sentences: Here are three sentences demonstrating the use of intolerant: The intolerant manager refused to consider any ideas that contradicted his own.
Sarah discovered she was intolerant to lactose and had to avoid dairy products. The professor encouraged students to challenge their intolerant attitudes and embrace diversity.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing intolerant with insensitive. While both can relate to a lack of consideration for others, intolerant specifically refers to an unwillingness to accept differences, while insensitive means a lack of empathy or awareness of others feelings.
Another error is using intolerant when intolerable is meant. Intolerable means unbearable or unacceptable, while intolerant describes the person who cannot accept something.
Understanding the word intolerant and its nuances is valuable for the SAT and beyond. It helps you comprehend complex texts about social issues, history, and human behavior.
Moreover, recognizing intolerance in various contexts can contribute to fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.
Remember, the opposite of being intolerant is being open-minded and accepting of diverse perspectives and experiences.
