Harmlessness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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harmlessness
[หhษหm.lษs.nษs ]
Definition
lack of
The quality of not causing harm or damage.
Synonyms
benignity, innocuousness, safety.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| harmlessness |
Best used to describe a situation, object, or substance that poses no danger or threat.
|
| innocuousness |
Typically refers to something that is so completely harmless that it doesn't have any noticeable effect, including things that might otherwise seem objectionable.
|
| benignity |
Often used to describe a person's kind and gentle nature, or to characterize a medical condition that is not harmful.
|
| safety |
Commonly used when discussing the conditions that prevent harm or ensure security, particularly in areas such as transportation, food, or activities.
|
Examples of usage
- His harmlessness was evident in the way he treated even the smallest insects with care.
- The harmlessness of the substance made it suitable for use in sensitive environments.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- In psychological terms, the concept of harmlessness relates to non-threatening behaviors which are essential for social bonding.
- Experiments show that treating others with harmlessness can reduce stress and increase trust in relationships.
Safety and Health
- In the context of health, harmlessness is often used to describe products that pose no risk to human wellness, like non-toxic cleaning supplies.
- Significant research focuses on distinguishing harmless substances in food and consumer products, ensuring public safety.
Philosophy
- Philosophical discussions often explore the ethics of harmlessness, emphasizing actions that avoid causing harm to others.
- The principle of 'do no harm' is foundational in many ethical frameworks, guiding moral behavior.
Literature
- In literary works, themes of harmlessness often highlight innocence, where characters may be depicted as pure and non-threatening.
- Harmless characters, like the fool in many stories, often provide comic relief without causing distress.
Origin of 'harmlessness'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from combining 'harm,' meaning damage, and 'less,' which means without.
- It has roots in Old English, where 'harm' meant injury or hurt, while 'less' indicated absence.
The term 'harmlessness' is derived from the word 'harmless', which originated in the late Middle English period. The word combines 'harm' with the suffix '-less', indicating the absence of harm. The concept of harmlessness has been valued in various philosophical and ethical traditions, emphasizing the importance of non-violence and compassion towards all living beings.
See also: harmlessly.