Translation guide
The English word 'intolerable' describes something that is too painful, annoying, or difficult to endure. In Japanese, the most natural way to express this depends on what is intolerable: physical sensations (heat, pain), emotional states (rudeness, stress), or situations (noise, injustice). Common expressions include 耐えられない, 我慢できない, and たまらない, each with different nuances and typical contexts.
Express that something is so painful, uncomfortable, or distressing that one cannot endure it.
Literally 'cannot bear/endure'. Used for physical pain, heat, cold, noise, or emotional suffering. A general, strong expression.
This heat is intolerable.
I can't stand his rude attitude.
Literally 'cannot endure/put up with'. Often used for annoying situations, people's behavior, or discomfort. Slightly more emotional than 耐えられない.
I can't stand this noise.
Expresses that a feeling or sensation is so strong it's unbearable. Often used for desires (wanting to do something), or for extreme heat/cold/pain. Can be positive or negative depending on context.
Literally 'cannot finish/do completely'. Used for emotional pain, sadness, or frustration that feels overwhelming. Somewhat literary or dramatic.
Express that a situation, behavior, or condition is so bad that it cannot be allowed or accepted.
Literally 'cannot forgive/allow'. Used for morally unacceptable actions, injustice, or betrayal.
His betrayal is absolutely intolerable.
This kind of discrimination is intolerable.
Formal expression meaning 'cannot tolerate/accept'. Used in official statements, news, or serious discussions.
Literally 'cannot overlook'. Used when you cannot ignore a problem or wrongdoing.
This problem is intolerable (cannot be overlooked).
Describe a situation that is so difficult, severe, or extreme that one cannot handle it.
Literally 'cannot handle with one's hands'. Means something is out of control, unmanageable, or too much to deal with.
This situation is intolerable (out of control).
Means 'there's nothing that can be done', expressing helplessness in an intolerable situation.
The situation has deteriorated to an intolerable level where nothing can be done.
耐えられない is the most direct translation of 'intolerable' and works for physical and emotional endurance. 我慢できない emphasizes putting up with annoyance or discomfort, often used for people's behavior. たまらない expresses an overwhelming sensation (often physical) that you can't stand; it can also be used positively (e.g., 嬉しくてたまらない 'I'm so happy I can't stand it').
I can't bear the pain.
I can't stand his attitude.
It's so cold I can't stand it.
There is no single Japanese adjective that covers all uses of 'intolerable'. Translating it as 耐え難い (たえがたい) is possible but sounds literary and is less common in everyday speech. Stick to the verb phrases above for natural Japanese.
unbearable pain (literary)
彼の遅刻にはもう我慢できない。
I can no longer tolerate his lateness.
It's unbearably hot.
My tooth hurts so much I can't stand it.
Hearing that sad story, I felt an intolerable sadness.
The government stated that such actions are intolerable.
His demands are intolerable (impossible to meet).