endure

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 堪 is associated with enduring; its on-reading is かん and its kun-reading is たえる.
• Basic usage: 堪らない(たまらない) can express being unable to bear something, while 堪能(たんのう) expresses proficiency or full enjoyment.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Discomfort and an irresistible pleasure
  • 暑くて堪らない means unbearably hot. Applied to the aroma of bread someone loves, 堪らない expresses intense pleasure or an irresistible appeal.
• Proficiency and full enjoyment
  • 三か国語に堪能だ means being proficient in three languages, while 郷土料理を堪能した means that someone fully enjoyed the local cuisine. Context distinguishes a level of ability from an experience of full enjoyment.