endure

Frequently Asked Questions About endure

How does the verb endure differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of endure are abide, bear, stand, suffer, and tolerate. While all these words mean "to put up with something trying or painful," endure implies continuing firm or resolute through trials and difficulties.

endured years of rejection

When is abide a more appropriate choice than endure?

While the synonyms abide and endure are close in meaning, abide suggests acceptance without resistance or protest.

cannot abide their rudeness

Where would bear be a reasonable alternative to endure?

Although the words bear and endure have much in common, bear usually implies the power to sustain without flinching or breaking.

forced to bear a tragic loss

When can stand be used instead of endure?

The synonyms stand and endure are sometimes interchangeable, but stand emphasizes even more strongly the ability to bear without discomposure or flinching.

unable to stand teasing

When would suffer be a good substitute for endure?

While in some cases nearly identical to endure, suffer often suggests acceptance or passivity rather than courage or patience in bearing.

suffering many insults

When is it sensible to use tolerate instead of endure?

The words tolerate and endure can be used in similar contexts, but tolerate suggests overcoming or successfully controlling an impulse to resist, avoid, or resent something injurious or distasteful.

refused to tolerate such treatment