countenance
To approve, support, or tolerate something
Examples
In a meeting
“We cannot countenance any behavior that violates our ethics policy.”
Over coffee
“I won't countenance that kind of rudeness in my home.”
Why this word
allow
Countenance means to tolerate or give tacit approval to, often reluctantly, while allow is neutral permission
approve
Countenance implies tolerating or accepting something possibly objectionable, while approve is active endorsement
tolerate
Countenance specifically means permitting by not opposing, often implying moral dimension, while tolerate is more passive endurance
Usage tip
Often used in negative constructions ('cannot countenance'). More formal than 'tolerate' or 'allow,' useful for policy or ethical statements.
Etymology
Old French 'contenance' (bearing, behavior), from Latin 'continere' (to contain, hold together)
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
authorize
To give official permission or approval for something
endorse
To publicly declare support or approval for something
sanction
To officially approve or authorize something
recuse
To remove oneself from a decision due to conflict of interest or bias
condone
To accept or allow behavior that is considered wrong
synthesis
The combining of separate elements to form a coherent whole