unbearable

word

/ənˈbɛɹəbəɫ/
uhn-BAIR-uh-buhl
/ʌnbˈeəɹəbəl/
uhn-BAIR-uh-buhl

Definition

Too painful, unpleasant, or intense to endure. Something that is extremely difficult to tolerate or bear.

Usage & Nuances

Stronger than "uncomfortable" or "annoying." Can describe physical pain, emotional suffering, heat, noise, boredom, or a person's behavior. Often used with "become" or "grow" to show escalation. The opposite is "bearable."

Example Sentences

The heat in the room was unbearable.

basic

The pain became unbearable after a few hours.

basic

The noise from the construction was unbearable.

basic

The grief of losing her mother was almost unbearable, but she found strength in her children.

natural

He can be absolutely unbearable when he doesn't get his way.

natural

The suspense grew unbearable as they waited for the test results.

natural