B2noun1K

Patience

UK /["/ˈpeɪʃns/"]/US /["/ˈpeɪʃns/"]/

Definition

the ability to stay calm and accept a delay or something annoying without complaining

In simple words: The ability to wait without getting upset.

Examples

  • Patience is key when learning a new language, as progress takes time.
  • She showed great patience while waiting in the long line at the bank.
  • Developing patience helps you remain calm in stressful situations.
  • His patience ran out after waiting for hours without any response.
  • Having patience during challenging times often leads to better outcomes.
  • The gardener's patience was rewarded when the flowers finally bloomed.

Usage notes

Used in various contexts to describe the quality of being able to tolerate delays or problems. Commonly appropriate in both personal and professional settings, but may seem less fitting in urgent or fast-paced situations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Remember 'patience' like 'pay-chance' — you need to pay attention to waiting.

Collocations

  • endless
  • great
  • infinite
  • exercise
  • have
  • show
  • be exhausted
  • run out
  • snap
  • with patience
  • patience  for
  • patience  with
  • the patience of a saint
  • endless
  • great
  • infinite
  • exercise
  • have
  • show
  • be exhausted
  • run out
  • snap
  • with patience
  • patience  for
  • patience  with
  • the patience of a saint

Synonyms

  • tolerance
  • forbearance
  • endurance
  • calmness
  • self-control

Antonyms

  • impatience

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'patients' (people receiving medical care)
  • Using in a context where urgency is implied
  • Mispronouncing as 'pa-tience' instead of 'pay-shence'