What does insufferable mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈsʌfərəbəl/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

So annoying, frustrating, or unbearable that one cannot tolerate it.

Examples

• The constant noise from the construction site was insufferable.
• Her attitude was so insufferable that I couldn’t stand being around her.

Synonyms

• Unbearable
• Intolerable
• Exasperating

Antonyms

• Bearable
• Tolerable
• Pleasant

Additional Information

Insufferable is often used to describe a person, situation, or condition that is extremely annoying or frustrating. It can also be used to emphasize the intensity of one’s emotions, such as anger, frustration, or disgust. For example, “The traffic jam was insufferable, I was so frustrated!”

In some cases, insufferable can be used to describe a person’s behavior or attitude that is perceived as arrogant, condescending, or patronizing. This can lead to feelings of resentment, annoyance, or even hatred towards the person in question.

Etymology

The word “insufferable” comes from the Latin words “in” meaning “not” and “sufferre” meaning “to bear” or “to endure”. It has been in use since the 15th century.

Usage Notes

When using the word insufferable, make sure to use it in context to convey the intended meaning. It’s essential to differentiate between annoying and intolerable situations to avoid exaggeration or understatement.

Cultural References

The word “insufferable” has been used in popular culture to describe characters, situations, or conditions that are extremely annoying or frustrating. For example, in the TV show “The Office”, the character Dwight Schrute is often referred to as “insufferable” due to his eccentric and annoying behavior.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Insufferable pride
• Insufferable ego

Related Words or Phrases

• Unbearable
• Intolerable
• Exasperating

Collocations

• Insufferable pain
• Insufferable noise

Frequency of Use

The word “insufferable” is moderately frequent in modern language, often used in formal and informal writing, as well as in spoken language.

Common Misspellings

• Insoferable
• Insufurble
• InSurFerable