Boon: meaning, definitions and examples

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boon

 

[buːn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

positive impact

A boon is something that is very helpful and beneficial. It is often considered a blessing or a gift that brings positive outcomes.

Synonyms

advantage, benefit, blessing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
boon

Used to describe something that is very beneficial and makes life easier or more enjoyable. Often carries a sense of being a welcome aid or convenience.

  • For remote workers, a reliable internet connection is a real boon.
  • The new public park has been a boon for the community.
blessing

Often used in a spiritual or emotional context to signify something that brings happiness or relief. It can also imply gratitude and divine favor.

  • Her recovery from the illness was a true blessing for the whole family.
  • The supportive team was a blessing during tough times.
benefit

Describes a positive effect or gain obtained from an action, service, or situation. This word is versatile and can be used in a variety of contexts, including health, work, and social scenarios.

  • Regular exercise has numerous health benefits.
  • Employees receive several benefits, including health insurance and paid time off.
advantage

Refers to a condition or circumstance that puts someone in a favorable or superior position. It is commonly used in competitive contexts.

  • His knowledge of multiple languages gave him an advantage in the job market.
  • Having access to early data can provide companies with a significant advantage.

Examples of usage

  • His timely intervention was a boon for the company.
  • The new technology proved to be a boon for the healthcare industry.
  • Having a supportive family is a great boon in times of need.
Context #2 | Noun

grant or favor

In historical contexts, a boon refers to a request or favor granted, especially by a superior or a powerful entity. It can also indicate a formal request or permission.

Synonyms

favor, gift, grant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
boon

This word is useful when referring to something that is a blessing or a great benefit, often unexpectedly helpful.

  • The internet has been a boon for small businesses
  • The new job was a boon to her career
grant

Grant is suited for situations where referring to a sum of money or other resources given by an organization for a particular purpose, usually following a formal request.

  • She received a research grant to continue her studies
  • The government announced a new housing grant for low-income families
favor

Favor is best used when referring to an act of kindness or a service done to help someone. It can also imply approval or support.

  • Could you do me a favor and pick up my mail? She asked her friend for a small favor
gift

Gift is appropriate when talking about something given voluntarily without expecting anything in return, often as a present.

  • He gave her a beautiful necklace as a gift
  • Receiving the scholarship was truly a gift

Examples of usage

  • The king granted the boon of land to his loyal subject.
  • The genie granted him three wishes as a boon for freeing him from the lamp.
  • She sought the boon of her father's approval before taking the next step.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'boon' comes from the Old French term ' bon ', meaning 'good', originating from the Latin 'bonus'.
  • Initially used in the 16th century, it described a 'gift' or 'favor,' showcasing its positive connotation from the start.
  • The word has evolved over time to emphasize particularly beneficial or advantageous circumstances.

Literature

  • In classic literature, 'boon' often appears to describe a character's luck or fortune, enhancing their journey.
  • The term is frequently used in poetry to evoke feelings of gratitude, as in receiving blessings or gifts.
  • In modern storytelling, it symbolizes pivotal moments that change a character's fate for the better.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, a boon can symbolize more than material benefits; it often represents goodwill and generosity.
  • Folklore abounds with tales where mythical beings grant a boon to heroes, impacting their quests or lives profoundly.
  • In contemporary discussions, receiving a boon often comes as a means of acknowledgment in charity and community efforts.

Psychology

  • Experiencing 'boons' in life can lead to increased happiness and well-being, as they contribute to positive experiences.
  • The phenomenon known as 'positive reinforcement' may occur when receiving a boon, encouraging repeated good actions.
  • Social connections often flourish when individuals perceive they are gaining boons from their interactions with others.

Translations

Translations of the word "boon" in other languages:

🇵🇹 benção

🇮🇳 आशीर्वाद

🇩🇪 Segen

🇮🇩 berkah

🇺🇦 благословення

🇵🇱 błogosławieństwo

🇯🇵 恩恵

🇫🇷 bénédiction

🇪🇸 bendición

🇹🇷 bereket

🇰🇷 은혜

🇸🇦 نعمة

🇨🇿 požehnání

🇸🇰 požehnanie

🇨🇳 恩惠

🇸🇮 blagoslov

🇮🇸 blessing

🇰🇿 береке

🇬🇪 კურთხევა

🇦🇿 bərəkət

🇲🇽 bendición

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,333, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.