Intolerable vs. Unacceptable

Attribute	Intolerable	Unacceptable
Magnitude	Extreme	Not as extreme as intolerable
Severity	Severe	Less severe than intolerable
Consequences	Unbearable	Not as unbearable as intolerable
Tolerance	No tolerance	Less tolerance than intolerable

Definition

Intolerable and unacceptable are two words that are often used interchangeably to express disapproval or dissatisfaction with a situation or behavior. However, there are subtle differences in their meanings that can affect how they are perceived. Intolerable typically refers to something that is unbearable or impossible to endure, while unacceptable suggests that something does not meet the required standards or expectations.

Severity

When it comes to severity, intolerable tends to convey a stronger sense of urgency or seriousness compared to unacceptable. Something that is intolerable is usually considered to be extremely distressing or offensive, while something that is unacceptable may be seen as less severe or more easily remedied. For example, a violation of human rights would be considered intolerable, while a minor mistake at work may be deemed unacceptable.

Subjectivity

Another key difference between intolerable and unacceptable is the level of subjectivity involved in their use. Intolerable is often used to describe situations or actions that are universally recognized as being wrong or harmful, such as violence or discrimination. On the other hand, unacceptable can be more subjective and dependent on individual opinions or standards. What one person finds unacceptable may not be viewed the same way by someone else.

Response

When faced with something that is intolerable, the typical response is one of immediate action or intervention. The urgency of the situation demands a swift and decisive response to address the issue at hand. On the other hand, something that is deemed unacceptable may elicit a more measured or gradual response, as it may not pose an immediate threat or danger.

Consequences

The consequences of something being intolerable are often severe and far-reaching, as they can impact the well-being or safety of individuals or communities. In contrast, the consequences of something being unacceptable may be less severe and more easily rectified through communication, negotiation, or compromise. For example, a company may address unacceptable behavior through training or disciplinary action, while intolerable behavior may result in legal action or termination.

Resolution

Resolving an intolerable situation typically requires drastic measures or significant changes to prevent further harm or damage. This may involve seeking outside help or intervention to address the root cause of the issue. On the other hand, resolving an unacceptable situation may involve making minor adjustments or improvements to meet the required standards or expectations. This could involve clarifying expectations, providing additional resources, or implementing new policies or procedures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while intolerable and unacceptable are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings and implications that can affect how they are perceived and addressed. Intolerable conveys a sense of urgency and severity that demands immediate action, while unacceptable may be seen as less severe or more easily remedied. Understanding the differences between these two words can help individuals and organizations effectively address and resolve issues as they arise.