Translation guide
The English word "intolerant" can describe a person who does not accept differences, a physical inability to digest certain foods, or a plant that cannot survive certain conditions. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Describing a person, attitude, or society that is unwilling to accept views, beliefs, or behavior different from one's own.
A direct translation often used in formal or written contexts. It can describe a person, attitude, or society.
彼は異なる意見に対して不寛容だ。
He is intolerant of different opinions.
Literally "does not tolerate/permit." Used to describe a person or group that does not accept certain behaviors or ideas.
そのコミュニティは遅刻を許容しない。
That community is intolerant of tardiness.
Means "does not accept." A softer, more conversational way to express intolerance.
彼女は自分と違う考え方を受け入れない。
She is intolerant of ways of thinking different from her own.
Means "narrow-minded" or "intolerant." Often used to describe a person's character.
彼は狭量で、他人の失敗を許せない。
He is intolerant and cannot forgive others' mistakes.
Describing a medical or biological inability to process a substance.
The standard medical suffix for "intolerance." Attach to the substance (e.g., 乳糖不耐症 for lactose intolerance).
私は乳糖不耐症なので、牛乳を飲めません。
I am lactose intolerant, so I can't drink milk.
A casual, everyday expression meaning "doesn't agree with (one's body)." Used for food sensitivities.
乳製品が合わないんです。
I'm intolerant to dairy products.
Literally "the body doesn't accept ~." Stronger than 合わない, implies a clear rejection.
私の体はアルコールを受け付けない。
My body is intolerant of alcohol.
Describing a plant's sensitivity to environmental factors.
Means "weak to ~." The most common way to describe a plant's intolerance.
この植物は霜に弱い。
This plant is intolerant of frost.
Means "cannot withstand ~." More formal or emphatic.
この花は直射日光に耐えられない。
This flower is intolerant of direct sunlight.
When describing a person's attitude, directly saying 不寛容 can sound overly formal or academic. In casual conversation, use phrases like 受け入れない or 許せない to sound more natural.
彼は冗談が通じない。
He is intolerant of jokes. (lit. jokes don't get through to him)