Innocuousness: meaning, definitions and examples

Similar to the first entry, referring to the quality of being harmless. This term is often used in technical or scientific discussions.

• Scientists tested the innocuousness of the new compound thoroughly.
• The innocuousness of the comment belied its true impact.

This is typically used to describe the state of causing no harm or injury. It can be applied to objects, actions, or situations that are safe.

• The worm's harmlessness made it a popular choice for children's science projects.
• The harmlessness of his joke put everyone at ease.

Best used when describing kindness, gentleness, or a benevolent attitude, often towards people or actions. It has a rather formal tone.

• Her benignity towards the children was evident in her kind gestures.
• The benignity of the weather made the picnic enjoyable.

Used to describe a state of purity or lack of guilt, often in a moral or legal sense. It can also describe someone who is naive or inexperienced.

• The child's innocence was apparent in her wide-eyed wonder at the world.
• He maintained his innocence throughout the trial.

Used to describe something that is not likely to harm or offend. Commonly applied to comments, actions, or substances that are completely safe and inoffensive.

• Despite the intense debate, his comments were marked by their innocuousness.
• The chemical showed complete innocuousness and posed no threat to the environment.

Often used in a practical or physical sense, referring to the state of being protected from danger, risk, or injury. It can also be applied more broadly to feelings of security.

• Ensure the safety of all participants with proper equipment.
• Her main concern was the safety of her family during the storm.

Commonly used when describing something or someone that does not cause physical or emotional harm. Ideal for reassuring safety in situations or describing non-threatening conditions.

• The harmlessness of the snake was proven, making it safe for the children to observe.
• His joke was meant in harmlessness, although it didn’t amuse everyone.

Typically refers to kindness or gentle disposition. It can describe both physical and behavioral aspects, such as a benign tumor or a person's gentle nature.

• Her benignity made her well-loved among her peers.
• The doctor confirmed the benignity of the growth, assuring it wasn’t cancerous.