Generous: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone is willing to give more of something, like money, help, or time, than is usual or expected.

• She is very generous with her time, always helping her neighbors.
• He made a generous donation to the charity.

Appropriate when referring to actions done to support charitable causes or done out of a kind and giving spirit.

• She is known for her charitable works and community service.
• They organized a charitable event to raise funds for the hospital.

Used when someone shows kindness and a desire to help others, often seen in actions done out of goodwill.

• The benevolent gentleman funded the building of a new school.
• Her benevolent smile reassured the scared children.

Can describe someone who is open-minded and willing to give freely, but may also be used in a political context, so be mindful of the setting.

• He has a liberal attitude towards sharing his resources.
• Her liberal views sometimes clash with more conservative perspectives.

Describes someone who is very kind and generous, often going above and beyond to help others.

• Despite his tough exterior, he is very big-hearted.
• Her big-hearted nature makes her beloved by everyone.

Describes someone who is willing to give more of something, such as money or time, than is usual or expected. It often has a positive connotation and refers to a person’s character.

• He was very generous, always donating money to charities.
• Her generous nature made her beloved by everyone.

Suggests there is enough or more than enough of something. It often emphasizes sufficiency and comfort.

• There was ample space for everyone in the new office.
• We have ample time to finish the project before the deadline.

Indicates a large quantity of something, more than enough. It is usually used to describe resources, opportunities, or availability.

• The garden had an abundant supply of tomatoes this year.
• They have abundant natural resources in their country.

Refers to a very large quantity of something, often used in formal contexts. It can describe something overflowing or excessively in large amounts.

• She took copious notes during the lecture.
• The book contains copious references and citations.

Describes something that exists in great quantities and is easy to find or obtain. It is often used to talk about food, supplies, or resources.

• Fruits and vegetables are plentiful in the summer.
• The harvest was plentiful this year.