So typically… When you think about tolerance lifestyles ways a thought in being etc. The more tolerant you are, better. Modern day society, especially in America… What are you no longer permitted to be tolerant in? 

In the context of physics, the term “tolerance” has a precise and technical meaning that can be traced through both its linguistic roots and its application in science and engineering.

Linguistic Etymology:

The word “tolerance” originates from the Latin verb tolerare, meaning “to bear” or “to endure.” This evolved into tolerantia in Late Latin, which referred to the capacity to endure hardship or pain. In English, “tolerance” initially referred to the ability to endure hardship or differences in general contexts.

Physics/Engineering Application:

In physics, engineering, and related fields, “tolerance” took on a more specialized meaning over time. In these contexts, tolerance refers to the allowable variation in a physical dimension, measurement, or operating condition without causing failure or unacceptable performance.

• Dimensional Tolerance: In mechanical engineering, it refers to the permissible deviation from a specified measurement. For instance, if a part is supposed to be 10 mm, a tolerance of ±0.01 mm means the part is acceptable if it measures anywhere between 9.99 mm and 10.01 mm.

• Performance Tolerance: In electrical engineering, it might refer to the acceptable range of performance, like how much a resistor’s actual resistance can deviate from its nominal value and still function properly.

This technical usage of “tolerance” reflects the original idea of “endurance” or “bearing” in the sense that the system can endure minor variations without breaking or losing functionality. Therefore, in physics and engineering, “tolerance” represents the boundaries within which a system can “tolerate” variability while still maintaining proper performance.