Gentle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ธ
gentle
[หdสษnt(ษ)l ]
Definitions
behavior
having or showing a mild, kind, or tender temperament; not harsh or severe
Synonyms
calm, kind, mild, soft, tender.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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gentle |
Used to describe a person or behavior that is considerate and mild in nature. Often implies care and sensitivity towards others.
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kind |
Describes someone who is considerate, sympathetic, and willing to help others. Used when emphasizing goodwill and a positive attitude towards others.
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tender |
Often used to describe compassion, care, or sensitivity towards others. Can also be used to describe something that is delicate or easily damaged.
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mild |
Indicates a moderate and gentle intensity, often used in describing weather, flavors, or personality traits.
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soft |
Describes texture or tone that is gentle to the touch or hearing. Can also refer to a lenient or non-forceful attitude.
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calm |
Refers to a state of being peaceful and free from stress or agitation. Often used in situations where tranquility and steadiness are needed.
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Examples of usage
- She has a gentle voice that soothes everyone around her.
- The gentle touch of his hand made her feel safe and loved.
- He gave her a gentle smile to reassure her.
- The gentle way he spoke to the children showed his caring nature.
- The gentle breeze rustled the leaves in the trees.
impact
moderate in action, effect, or degree; not strong or violent
Synonyms
light, mild, moderate, soft, subtle.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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gentle |
Often used to describe people or actions that are kind, careful, and not harsh. Can also describe weather or sounds.
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moderate |
Used to describe something that is average in amount, intensity, or degree. Often used in contexts like weather, politics, or opinions.
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mild |
Typically describes weather, flavors, or conditions that are not extreme. Also used to describe personalities that are not overly strong or aggressive.
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light |
Used to describe weight, colors, or intensity. Often refers to things that are not heavy or not intense.
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soft |
Describes textures, sounds, or materials that are smooth or gentle to touch. Can also refer to people who are considerate or not strict.
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subtle |
Used to describe things that are not obvious or are delicate and nuanced. Often refers to art, signals, changes, or humor.
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Examples of usage
- The medication has a gentle effect on the body without causing any side effects.
- He gave a gentle push to help her start moving.
- The gentle slope of the hill made it easy to climb.
- The gentle rain soaked the ground slowly and steadily.
- The gentle heat of the sun warmed their faces.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Studies show that gentle interactions can build trust and strengthen relationships, making kindness a powerful tool in communication.
- Gentle approaches in therapy encourage openness and vulnerability, leading to more effective healing processes.
- Research indicates that being gentle with oneself can reduce anxiety and self-criticism, promoting better mental health.
Nature
- Many animals exhibit gentle behaviors, such as elephants being careful when interacting with their young or other creatures.
- Gentle rain is crucial for plants and ecosystems, providing necessary moisture without causing damage.
- Gentle winds often create calm atmospheres, influencing weather patterns and the behavior of wildlife.
Literature
- In various fairy tales, gentle characters often embody kindness and wisdom, leading to peaceful resolutions.
- Classic literature often contrasts gentle figures against harsh ones, emphasizing the strength of compassion over aggression.
- Poets frequently describe gentle emotions and actions as beautiful, highlighting their importance in human experience.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, gentleness is associated with femininity and nurturing, often celebrated in rituals and storytelling.
- Gentle philosophies like Buddhism encourage compassion and non-violence, promoting peace in society.
- Songs and poems about gentleness are prevalent in various cultures, underscoring its universal appeal as a virtue.
Origin of 'gentle'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'gentilis,' meaning 'of the same clan or family.' This reflects the idea of being kind and inclusive.
- In Old French, 'gentil' described noble or delicate qualities, linking gentleness to kindness and refinement.
- The transition into Middle English maintained the gentle nature, often connected to gentle behavior and manners.
The word 'gentle' originated from the Middle English word 'gentil', which came from the Old French word 'gentil' meaning 'high-born, noble, of good family or breeding'. Over time, the meaning of 'gentle' evolved to represent characteristics such as kindness, tenderness, and moderation. The concept of gentleness has been valued in various cultures throughout history as a desirable trait in individuals. In modern usage, 'gentle' is commonly associated with softness, calmness, and compassion.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #3,817, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.
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- 3814 weakness
- 3815 civilization
- 3816 cloud
- 3817 gentle
- 3818 organisms
- 3819 revolutionary
- 3820 accurately
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