SUFFER FOOL Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "suffer fool" refers to enduring or tolerating someone who is foolish, ignorant, or lacks intelligence. It is an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of patiently putting up with, enduring, or bearing the presence, actions, or opinions of individuals who demonstrate a lack of wisdom, knowledge, or common sense.
The term "suffer" in this context implies a level of patience and forbearance, as it suggests enduring something unpleasant or inconvenient. It conveys the idea of enduring the foolishness or ignorance of another person without becoming overly frustrated or losing one's temper. The word "fool" refers to an individual who lacks good judgment, intelligence, or understanding, often making imprudent decisions without thinking through the consequences.
When used in conversation or writing, "suffer fool" typically signifies the act of maintaining composure or restraint in the face of someone's foolish behavior, opinions, or actions. It may imply the need to exercise self-control and avoid confrontation or openly criticizing the person's lack of knowledge or judgment. This expression can also convey a sense of pity or empathy towards the individual, recognizing their limitations or shortcomings without holding them in contempt. Overall, "suffer fool" emphasizes the notion of enduring or tolerating foolishness with patience and understanding.
Etymology of SUFFER FOOL
The expression "suffer fool" or "suffer fools gladly" can be traced back to biblical sources, specifically the New Testament. The phrase appears in the King James Version of the Bible, in 2 Corinthians 11:19: "For ye suffer fools gladly, seeing ye yourselves are wise".
The word "suffer" in this context means "to tolerate" or "to put up with". The term "fool" refers to someone who is foolish, lacking wisdom, or possessing a lack of understanding or good judgment. The etymology of the word "fool" can be traced back to the Old English word "fugol", which meant "a bird" or "a simpleton".
Over time, the phrase "suffer fools gladly" gained popularity beyond its biblical origins and became an idiomatic expression to describe someone who is patient or tolerant of foolish or ignorant behavior.
