Graciously: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used when someone is accepting or doing something with good manners and charm, showing a sense of fairness and kindness.

• She graciously accepted the award on behalf of her team.
• He graciously offered to help with the preparations.

Best used when referring to actions that adhere to social norms of good behavior and respect, often in everyday interactions.

• He politely declined the offer.
• She asked politely if she could be excused.

Appropriate when referring to formal and polite behavior, especially in professional or respectful scenarios.

• The host greeted all the guests courteously.
• He courteously waited for everyone to finish before speaking.

Used to describe actions done with sympathy, friendliness, or a warm, gentle manner.

• The stranger kindly gave her directions.
• She kindly offered him a cup of tea.

Best used when someone is being thoughtful and mindful of others' feelings and needs.

• He spoke considerately, ensuring not to hurt anyone's feelings.
• She considerately left a note to explain why she left early.

Used when someone is showing kindness and courtesy, often in a polite or elegant manner.

• She graciously accepted the award
• He graciously opened the door for her

Used when someone is giving more than is usual or expected, often in a fair or kind manner.

• She generously donated to the cause
• He generously offered his time to help

Used when someone is acting with a desire to do good or help others, often in a peaceful or kind manner.

• The charity worker spoke benevolently about their mission
• He smiled benevolently at the children

Used when someone is showing a lofty or noble generosity, often behaving in a magnanimous way towards someone less powerful or someone who has wronged them.

• After the argument, he magnanimously forgave her mistakes
• She magnanimously praised her competitor's success

Used when someone is giving or spending freely, often without careful consideration, but also means being open-minded and tolerant.

• She applied the lotion liberally
• He spoke liberally about his progressive ideas