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Harmless: meaning, definitions and examples

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harmless

 

[ ˈhɑːmlɪs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

description

Not causing or capable of causing harm; innocuous.

Synonyms

benign, innocent, non-threatening, safe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
harmless

Use when describing something that causes no harm or injury. This word is general and can be applied in many different contexts.

  • The spider in the corner of the room is harmless.
  • The prank they played on him was completely harmless.
innocent

Usually used to describe someone who is free from guilt or blame, or something that is not intended to cause harm.

  • The child was innocent of any wrongdoing.
  • It was just an innocent mistake that caused no harm.
safe

Implies that something is free from danger or risk. This word is broad and can apply across many situations, from physical safety to emotional well-being.

  • They assured us that the new playground equipment is completely safe for kids.
  • He felt safe talking to the therapist about his problems.
benign

Often used in medical or academic contexts to describe something that is not harmful, particularly non-cancerous tumors. It can also describe gentle and kind behavior.

  • The doctor said the tumor is benign and not a cause for concern.
  • Her smile was benign and reassuring.
non-threatening

Describes something or someone that does not pose a threat or cause fear. Often used when addressing anxieties or fears.

  • Her non-threatening demeanor made everyone feel comfortable.
  • The dog looks fierce, but it's entirely non-threatening.

Examples of usage

  • The spider looked harmless, but it turned out to be poisonous.
  • Her comments were harmless, just meant as a joke.

Translations

Translations of the word "harmless" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inofensivo

🇮🇳 हानिरहित

🇩🇪 harmlos

🇮🇩 tidak berbahaya

🇺🇦 нешкідливий

🇵🇱 nieszkodliwy

🇯🇵 無害な (むがいな)

🇫🇷 inoffensif

🇪🇸 inofensivo

🇹🇷 zararsız

🇰🇷 무해한

🇸🇦 غير ضار

🇨🇿 neškodný

🇸🇰 neškodný

🇨🇳 无害的 (wúhài de)

🇸🇮 neškodljiv

🇮🇸 skaðlaus

🇰🇿 зиянсыз

🇬🇪 უვნებელი

🇦🇿 zərərsiz

🇲🇽 inofensivo

Etymology

The word 'harmless' originated from the combination of 'harm' + '-less'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The prefix '-less' denotes the absence of harm or danger, making 'harmless' a word used to describe something that poses no threat or danger.

See also: harm, harmed, harmful, harmfully, harmfulness, harming, harmony, unharmed.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,501 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.