Benevolent: meaning, definitions and examples

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benevolent

[bɪˈnɛvələnt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

kind-hearted

Well-meaning and kindly. Showing kindness and goodwill. Characterized by or expressing goodwill or kindly feelings. Desiring to help others. Demonstrating or motivated by concern for the well-being of others.

Synonyms

altruistic, charitable, compassionate, generous, kind.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
benevolent	Describes someone who has a well-meaning and kind disposition, often associated with actions that promote others' well-being. He is a benevolent leader who cares about the welfare of his employees. Benevolent gestures such as donating to a local charity can make a big difference.
kind	Describes someone who is friendly, considerate, and willing to help others. He is kind to everyone he meets, always offering a smile. Her kind words were a great comfort during difficult times.
generous	Refers to a willingness to give more of something, like time or money, than is expected or necessary. She was generous with her time, always willing to help her friends. His generous donation helped build the new community center.
charitable	Typically refers to generous actions or donations aimed at helping those in need, often linked to organizations or financial support. He made a charitable donation to the local children’s hospital. Her charitable work with the food bank has helped many families.
altruistic	Emphasizes selfless concern for the well-being of others, often involving personal sacrifice. Her altruistic acts included volunteering at the homeless shelter without expecting anything in return. Choosing to donate a kidney is an incredibly altruistic act.
compassionate	Describes showing sympathy and concern for the suffering or misfortunes of others, often leading to actions to help them. She is extremely compassionate, always there to lend a hand to those in need. His compassionate nature makes him a wonderful counselor.

Examples of usage

Her benevolent smile warmed the hearts of everyone around her.
The benevolent millionaire donated a large sum of money to the charity.
The teacher's benevolent attitude towards her students created a positive learning environment.
His benevolent actions towards the homeless shelter improved the lives of many people.
The company's benevolent policies towards its employees led to high job satisfaction.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

organization

An organization or person that helps people or donates money for good causes. A philanthropic individual or group.

Synonyms

benefactor, charity, foundation, nonprofit, philanthropy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
benevolent	Used to describe someone who is kind and has a desire to help others. Her benevolent smile made everyone feel welcome. He is known as a benevolent leader who always looks out for his employees.
charity	Denotes an organization set up to provide help and raise money for those in need, or the act of giving help to others. She donates a portion of her salary to charity every month. The charity organized an event to raise funds for medical research.
philanthropy	Involves the act of donating money, goods, time, or effort to support a charitable cause, often used to describe broader socially beneficial activities. His philanthropy has extended to numerous global health initiatives. Philanthropy plays a crucial role in improving the lives of those in need.
foundation	Usually refers to an organization that provides financial support for causes or research, often established by wealthy individuals or groups. The foundation awarded several grants for environmental protection. He set up a foundation to support educational initiatives in underdeveloped countries.
nonprofit	Describes an organization that operates without the primary goal of making a profit, often focusing on social, educational, or charitable missions. She works for a nonprofit that helps homeless families find housing. The nonprofit organization focuses on improving literacy in rural areas.
benefactor	Refers to a person who gives money or other help to a person or cause. The school thanked the benefactor for his generous donation. He became a benefactor of the arts, funding several new museums and galleries.

Examples of usage

The benevolent supports various charitable initiatives in the community.
Many people rely on the local benevolent for assistance during difficult times.
The benevolent's contributions have made a significant impact on the community.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'benevolentem', which means 'wishing well'.
It is made up of 'bene', meaning 'well', and 'velle', meaning 'to wish'.
The term has been used in English since the 15th century.

Psychology

Studies have shown that acts of kindness can increase happiness in both the giver and receiver.
Benevolence is often linked to altruism, which is when people selflessly help others.
Psychologists say that being benevolent can lead to stronger social bonds and community trust.

Literature

In classic literature, benevolent characters often represent the moral compass of a story, guiding others toward goodness.
Charles Dickens often depicted benevolent figures, such as Scrooge after his transformation in 'A Christmas Carol'.
Benevolence is a common theme in many fairy tales, where kind acts lead to good fortune.

Pop Culture

In superhero movies, benevolent heroes are those who protect and serve their communities with no expectation of reward.
Fictional characters, like Atticus Finch from 'To Kill a Mockingbird', are celebrated for their benevolent actions and strong morals.
Television shows often highlight the importance of benevolence through charitable acts and community service storylines.

Philosophy

Philosophers like Immanuel Kant emphasized the importance of benevolence in ethics, suggesting it as a key virtue.
Utilitarianism often encourages benevolent actions that promote the greatest good for the greatest number.
Benevolence is sometimes discussed in the context of 'the Golden Rule': treat others as you would like to be treated.

Translations

Translations of the word "benevolent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 benevolente

🇮🇳 सद्भावी

🇩🇪 wohlwollend

🇮🇩 baik hati

🇺🇦 доброзичливий

🇵🇱 życzliwy

🇯🇵 慈悲深い (じひぶかい)

🇫🇷 bienveillant

🇪🇸 benevolente

🇹🇷 iyiliksever

🇰🇷 자비로운

🇸🇦 خيّر

🇨🇿 benevolentní

🇸🇰 benevolentný

🇨🇳 仁慈的 (réncí de)

🇸🇮 dobrohoten

🇮🇸 velviljaður

🇰🇿 мейірімді

🇬🇪 კეთილშობილი

🇦🇿 xeyirxah

🇲🇽 benevolente

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,320 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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9317 tempered
9318 syntax
9319 cobalt
9320 benevolent
9321 adversary
9322 exertion
9323 alternately
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