Generosity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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generosity
[หdสษnษหrษsษชti ]
Definitions
showing kindness
The quality of being kind and generous; willingness to give freely.
Synonyms
benevolence, kindness, magnanimity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| generosity |
Used when referring to the act of giving freely, whether it be time, money, or resources, often without expecting anything in return.
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| kindness |
Used to describe the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate, typically in everyday interactions.
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| benevolence |
Used to describe a quality of being well-meaning and kind, often associated with a desire to help others.
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| magnanimity |
Used in situations involving showing a generous or forgiving nature, especially toward a rival or someone less powerful.
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Examples of usage
- She was known for her generosity towards the less fortunate.
- His generosity knew no bounds when it came to helping others.
giving money or resources
The act of giving money, help, or support to those in need.
Synonyms
charity, liberality, philanthropy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| generosity |
appropriate for describing the quality of being kind and willing to give more than is necessary or expected, in a general context.
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| charity |
often used when referring to providing help for those in need, usually through organizations.
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| philanthropy |
used when talking about the act of promoting the welfare of others, often by the donation of money to good causes, typically on a large scale.
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| liberality |
typically used to describe a willingness to give freely, often in the context of ideas or money, with a positive connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Her generosity in donating to charity made a significant impact.
- The company's generosity towards its employees was evident in the benefits provided.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Perspectives
- Many cultures celebrate acts of kindness, such as the concept of 'dan' in Buddhism, emphasizing giving as a path to enlightenment.
- In Arab culture, hospitality and sharing with guests are deeply rooted in traditions, showcasing a high value on generosity.
Psychology
- Studies show that practicing generosity activates regions in the brain associated with happiness, promoting overall well-being.
- Generosity is linked to increased life satisfaction; people who give to others often report feeling happier themselves.
Pop Culture
- Famous figures like Oprah Winfrey are known for their generosity, using their wealth and influence to support various charitable causes.
- The idea of 'paying it forward' in films promotes the notion that a single act of kindness can create a chain reaction of generosity.
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Aristotle viewed generosity as a virtue, essential for living a good and fulfilling life.
- The concept of 'altruism' in philosophical circles often intersects with generosity, emphasizing selfless concern for the well-being of others.
Origin of 'generosity'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'generositas,' meaning nobility or kindness, reflecting a sense of high-mindedness.
- In Old French, 'generositรฉ' also emphasized the quality of being noble or honorable, connecting generosity to social status.
The word 'generosity' originated from the Latin word 'generositas', meaning nobility or excellence. It has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe the quality of being kind and giving. Generosity is a virtue that has been valued across cultures and societies as a symbol of altruism and compassion.
See also: generously.