Synonyms for

Unbearable

Verb / ʌˈnberʌbʌl / Another word for unbearable — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Something that is unbearable is too difficult, painful, or unpleasant to deal with.

Synonyms & similar words

unendurable intolerable tolerable intolerable unendurable insupportable unmanageable uncontrollable uncomfortable difficult hard challenging tough burdensome oppressive overwhelming heavy onerous onerousness onerousness

Synonyms by register

Formal

intolerable insufferable unendurable

Informal

awful terrible horrible dreadful

Literary

grievous woeful excruciating

Antonyms

bearable tolerable endurable supportable acceptable manageable

Common collocations

  • unbearable pain
  • unbearable heat
  • unbearable pressure
  • unbearable loss
  • unbearable conditions
  • unbearable situation
  • unbearable weight

Word family

noun unbearableness
verb bear
adverb unbearably

Usage note

Often used to describe physical pain, emotional distress, or extreme conditions. Can also be used hyperbolically for minor annoyances.

Example sentences

  1. The pain in my tooth was unbearable, and I had to go to the dentist.
  2. The weight of the backpack was unbearable, and I had to take some things out.
  3. The noise from the construction was unbearable, and I had to wear earplugs.
  4. The sadness after my dog died was unbearable, and I had to talk to a therapist.

Quotes

  • 'The only way to deal with unbearable things is to make them unbearable for everyone else.' - Julian Assange
  • 'I can bear any pain as long as it has meaning.' - Haruki Murakami
  • 'The burden of the self is not light.' - Leonard Cohen

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