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Benefit Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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benefit

[ˈbɛnɪfɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

financial

An advantage or profit gained from something.

Synonyms

advantage, gain, perk, profit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
benefit

Generally used in formal contexts to describe an improvement or gain resulting from a situation or action.

  • One of the benefits of exercise is improved mental health.
  • Employees receive health benefits as part of their compensation package.
advantage

Usually refers to a favorable position or condition that gives someone a higher chance of success.

  • Having a supportive family can give you a significant advantage in life.
  • The new software offers a clear advantage over the previous version.
profit

Used primarily in business contexts to describe the financial gain after all expenses have been subtracted.

  • The company made a substantial profit this year.
  • To maximize profit, the business needs to reduce its costs.
gain

Often used in the context of achieving or obtaining something, especially an increase in amount or improvement.

  • The company reported a significant gain in profits this quarter.
  • Regular exercise can lead to physical and mental health gains.
perk

Typically used in casual contexts to describe additional benefits or privileges that come with a job or situation.

  • One of the perks of working at a tech company is free meals.
  • A company car is one of the many perks of being a top executive.

Examples of usage

  • The company offers many benefits to its employees, including health insurance and paid vacation.
  • One of the benefits of regular exercise is improved overall health.
Context #2 | Verb

formal

To receive an advantage or profit.

Synonyms

derive, gain, profit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
benefit

Used to indicate an advantage or improvement gained from something, often in general or non-monetary terms. This can apply to personal, social, or health contexts.

  • Regular exercise has numerous benefits for your health.
  • The new park will benefit the community.
gain

Refers to obtaining or receiving an increase in something, often used when talking about knowledge, strength, power, or something gradual.

  • He gained a lot of experience during his internship.
  • The company is gaining a reputation for excellent customer service.
profit

Specifically related to financial or material benefit, often used in business and economic contexts. Can sometimes have a negative connotation if it implies greed or exploitation.

  • The company reported a significant increase in profits this quarter.
  • They profited greatly from the deal, although some argued it was at others' expense.
derive

Typically used to describe attaining something, especially non-physical, from a specific source. Often used in more formal or scientific contexts.

  • She derives great satisfaction from helping others.
  • The medicine is derived from a rare plant.

Examples of usage

  • Employees benefit from flexible working hours.
  • The local community will benefit from the new infrastructure project.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'benefit'

The word 'benefit' originated from the Latin word 'benefactum', which means 'good deed'. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to an advantage or profit gained from something. The concept of benefiting from something has been important throughout human history, as individuals and societies seek to gain advantages to improve their well-being.

See also: beneficial, beneficially, beneficiary, benefits.

Word Frequency Rank

At #820 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.