forbearance

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence
noun a delay in enforcing rights or claims or privileges; refraining from acting

From forbear (“to keep away from, avoid”) + -ance (suffix forming nouns indicating conditions or states).

But there my forbearance stopped. — The Moonstone, Wilkie Collins
And then I was amazed at our forbearance. — Mr. Standfast, John Buchan
Had not the workmen’s forbearance been much tried? — The Amazing Marriage — Complete, George Meredith

patience, longanimity

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