The spelling of the word "longsuffering" might be confusing at first glance, but it's actually quite straightforward. The first syllable "long" is pronounced as /lɒŋ/, same as the word "long". The second syllable "suf" is pronounced as /sʌf/, rhyming with "tough". The third syllable "fer" is pronounced as /fər/, similar to the word "fur". And finally, "ing" is pronounced as /ɪŋ/, like the "ing" in "sing". Altogether, "longsuffering" is pronounced as /lɒŋˈsʌfərɪŋ/. It means to have patience and endure for a long time.
Longsuffering refers to the quality or attribute of having great patience, forbearance, and tolerance when dealing with difficult or challenging situations, circumstances, or individuals over an extended period of time. It is commonly associated with enduring hardships or enduring the actions, attitudes, or behaviors of others without becoming easily provoked, frustrated, or upset.
Longsuffering is a character trait that emphasizes self-control and the ability to remain calm and composed in the face of adversity or provocation. It involves the willingness to persistently endure through hardships, setbacks, or challenges without complaining or seeking revenge. Longsuffering is often regarded as a virtue and is considered a valuable trait in fostering empathy, understanding, and compassion towards others.
This term is often used in the context of interpersonal relationships, where it describes the ability to maintain patience and understanding when dealing with difficult or disagreeable individuals. It can also apply to enduring physical or emotional pain with composure and not succumbing to despair or resentment.
Longsuffering is typically associated with acts of kindness, mercy, and forgiveness, as it requires the individual to exhibit a high level of self-control and empathy towards others. It is a virtue greatly valued in many religious and moral teachings, as it promotes harmony, understanding, and the ability to maintain healthy relationships even in the face of adversity or wrongdoing.
The word "longsuffering" comes from the combination of two Old English words: "lang" meaning "long" and "suffering" which comes from the verb "suffer" meaning "to endure" or "to experience pain or distress". The term originated from the translation of religious texts, particularly the Bible, where it is used to describe one of the characteristics of God. The Greek word "makrothymia" is translated as "longsuffering" in various English versions of the Bible, emphasizing the idea of God's patient endurance and forbearance. As it became more commonly used, the term "longsuffering" started to be employed to describe human behavior as well, referring to a person's ability to remain calm, patient, and tolerant in difficult or trying circumstances.