Meaning Of Tolerate In Hindi

Decoding "Tolerate" in Hindi: A Deep Dive into सहनशीलता and Beyond

Understanding the nuances of a single word across languages can be a fascinating journey. This article delves into the meaning of "tolerate" in Hindi, exploring not just its direct translation but also the cultural and contextual subtleties associated with the concept of tolerance itself. We'll examine various Hindi words that capture different facets of tolerance, looking at their usage, connotations, and the subtle differences that set them apart. This exploration will reveal the richness and depth of the Hindi language when it comes to expressing this complex idea.

Introduction: More Than Just सहन करना

A simple Google Translate search might give you सहन करना (sahana karna) as the equivalent of "to tolerate." While technically correct in some contexts, it's a significant oversimplification. "Tolerate," in English, encompasses a range of meanings from passive acceptance to active forbearance, even a grudging acknowledgment. Hindi, with its rich vocabulary, offers a more nuanced approach, providing specific words to reflect these varying degrees of acceptance. This article aims to illuminate these differences and help you choose the most appropriate Hindi word based on the specific context.

Understanding the Spectrum of "Tolerate" in Hindi

The English word "tolerate" doesn't map directly onto a single Hindi word. Instead, a cluster of words and phrases convey the concept, each with its own shades of meaning:

• सहन करना (sahana karna): This is the most common and straightforward translation. It literally means "to bear" or "to endure." This implies passive acceptance, often in the face of something unpleasant or difficult. Think of tolerating a noisy neighbor – you endure the noise, but don't necessarily approve of it. This carries a neutral or slightly negative connotation.

• सहाना (sahana): This is the verb form, meaning "to bear" or "to endure". It's a shorter and more concise version compared to "sahana karna."

• असह्य (asahya): This word means "intolerable," the opposite of tolerance. Understanding its meaning helps clarify the spectrum of tolerance.

• क्षमा करना (kshama karna): This translates to "to forgive" or "to pardon." While not a direct synonym of "tolerate," it relates to a form of acceptance, particularly in the context of social interactions. Forgiving someone's mistake implies a form of tolerance for their flaws. It carries a more positive and compassionate connotation.

• दूर करना (door karna): This phrase means "to remove" or "to eliminate." Although seemingly contradictory to tolerance, it can be relevant when considering actively removing the source of intolerance, suggesting proactive tolerance.

• सहनशीलता (sahanshilata): This is the noun form, meaning "tolerance" or "forbearance." It represents the abstract concept of being tolerant. This word is crucial when discussing the quality of being tolerant.

Contextual Usage: Choosing the Right Word

The appropriate Hindi word to use depends heavily on the context. Consider these examples:

• "I tolerate his bad jokes." Here, सहन करना (sahana karna) is suitable. It implies enduring something unpleasant without necessarily enjoying it.

• "She tolerates the heat." Again, सहन करना (sahana karna) works well. It focuses on enduring a difficult condition.

• "The government promotes religious tolerance." Here, सहनशीलता (sahanshilata) is the best choice. It refers to the abstract concept of acceptance and respect for diverse beliefs.

• "He tolerates his coworker's lateness, but only up to a point." This situation requires a more nuanced approach. You might use a phrase like "वह अपने सहकर्मी की देरी को कुछ हद तक सहन करता है" (vah apne sahakarmī kī derī ko kuchh had tak sahna karta hai), which translates to "He tolerates his coworker's lateness to some extent".

• "I can't tolerate injustice." This requires a stronger word than simply "sahana karna." A phrase like "मैं अन्याय को बर्दाश्त नहीं कर सकता" (main anyay ko bardasht nahin kar sakta) which translates to "I cannot bear injustice", would be more appropriate. Here, "bardasht" implies a stronger sense of resistance to something unacceptable.

Beyond the Words: Cultural Context of Tolerance in India

Understanding the Hindi words for "tolerate" is only part of the picture. The concept of tolerance itself holds significant cultural weight in India, a nation renowned for its diversity. The philosophy of ahimsa (non-violence) and the principle of sarva dharma sambhava (equal respect for all religions) have deeply influenced Indian society's approach to tolerance. However, it's also important to acknowledge that challenges to tolerance exist, and the ideal of perfect harmony remains a work in progress.

The Evolution of Tolerance: A Historical Perspective

The understanding and practice of tolerance in India have evolved over centuries. Ancient texts highlight the importance of respecting diverse viewpoints and beliefs. However, historical periods also witnessed instances of intolerance and conflict. The modern Indian context grapples with balancing the ideal of tolerance with the realities of social and political complexities.

FAQ: Addressing Common Questions

• What's the difference between सहन करना and क्षमा करना? सहन करना (sahana karna) focuses on enduring something unpleasant, while क्षमा करना (kshama karna) implies forgiveness and letting go of resentment.

• Is there a Hindi word for "intolerant"? Yes, असहिष्णु (asahiṣhṇu) is a common adjective used to describe someone who is intolerant.

• How can I use these words in a sentence? Practice is key! Try constructing sentences using different contexts and observing how the nuances of each word change the meaning.

Conclusion: Embracing the Nuances of Tolerance

There's no single perfect translation for "tolerate" in Hindi. The best choice depends entirely on the context and the specific shade of meaning you want to convey. By understanding the various words and phrases available, you can express the concept of tolerance with greater accuracy and depth. Moreover, exploring the cultural significance of tolerance in India enriches our understanding of the word's meaning beyond its literal translation. This journey into the Hindi language not only expands your vocabulary but also provides a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human interaction and the multifaceted nature of tolerance itself. Keep practicing, keep exploring, and you'll soon master the art of expressing this critical concept in Hindi with nuance and precision.