patience

word · lemma: patient

/ˈpeɪʃəns/
PAY-shuhns
/pˈeɪʃəns/
PAY-shuhns

Definition

The ability to stay calm and keep waiting or dealing with something difficult without getting angry or upset. It is also the ability to accept that some things take time.

Usage & Nuances

Usually uncountable: say 'have patience' or 'show patience', not usually 'a patience'. Common patterns: 'be patient with someone', 'have the patience to do something', 'lose patience'. 'Patience' is the noun; 'patient' is the adjective.

Example Sentences

Thanks for your patience—I know this is taking longer than expected.

natural

Good teachers need patience.

basic

I don't have enough patience to wait that long.

basic

Her patience helped the child learn.

basic

He finally lost his patience when the app crashed again.

natural

Teaching my dad how to use his new phone takes a lot of patience.

natural