Cool MateSuffer vs Tolerate
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Suffer | Tolerate | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | to feel pain or distress | To accept something unpleasant without complaining. |
| CEFR level | B1 | C1 |
| Part of speech | verb | verb |
| Usage notes | Used when someone is experiencing pain or hardship. Avoid in casual contexts where lighter terms are appropriate. | Used in everyday conversation and writing. It's appropriate in neutral and formal contexts, but can sound weak in informal contexts where stronger emotions are expected. |
Frequently asked questions: Suffer vs Tolerate
What's the difference between "Suffer" and "Tolerate"?
"Suffer" means: to feel pain or distress "Tolerate" means: To accept something unpleasant without complaining.
When should I use "Suffer" and "Tolerate"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Suffer" and "Tolerate" the same CEFR level?
"Suffer" is at B1, "Tolerate" is at C1 on the CEFR scale.