# intolerance

/ˌɪnˈtɑɫɝəns/ (US) · /ɪntˈɒləɹəns/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/intolerance
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. prejudice

noun · CEFR B2

the refusal to accept people who have different beliefs, backgrounds, or ways of life.

For teachers: an unwillingness to accept views, beliefs, or lifestyles that differ from one's own. Uncountable in this abstract sense.

- The community worked hard to fight religious intolerance and bring people together.
- The rise of political intolerance in the region has made it increasingly difficult for moderate voices to participate in public debate.

### 2. physical sensitivity

noun · CEFR B2

a condition where your body has trouble digesting a specific food or reacting to a drug.

For teachers: a physiological inability to digest or process a particular substance, such as a food or medication, without adverse effects. Often countable when referring to specific types.

- Since she has a lactose intolerance, she uses almond milk in her coffee.
- Patients with a known intolerance to gluten must be extremely cautious when dining out, as even trace amounts can cause significant discomfort.

## Examples

- His lactose intolerance means he cannot drink milk.
- The patient's digestive issues were eventually traced back to a gluten intolerance that had gone undiagnosed for years.
- While some physical reactions are mild, a severe food intolerance can significantly restrict a person's dietary options and require careful label reading at every meal.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.