Magnanimously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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magnanimously

[หŒmรฆษกหˆnรฆnษชmษ™sli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a generous and noble manner

Magnanimously is an adverb that describes someone who acts with great generosity, kindness, and forgiveness. It is the quality of being noble and forgiving, especially towards someone who has wronged you.

Synonyms

forgivingly, generously, nobly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
magnanimously

This word is best used when describing someone who shows a great degree of generosity, especially in forgiving others or overlooking personal offenses.

  • He magnanimously accepted the apology from his long-time rival.
  • She magnanimously donated a large sum to the charity, helping countless families in need.
generously

Use this word when describing an act that involves giving freely and plentifully, whether it be time, money, or effort.

  • The wealthy entrepreneur generously funded the new community center.
  • She generously offered her assistance to anyone in need.
nobly

This word is useful when describing someone who acts with honor, integrity, and selflessness. It carries a connotation of moral and ethical superiority.

  • He nobly defended the rights of those who could not defend themselves.
  • She nobly sacrificed her own ambitions to support her family's needs.
forgivingly

This word applies when someone is willing to forgive someone else's mistakes or wrongdoings. It focuses more on the act of forgiveness than on the magnitude of the generosity involved.

  • He smiled forgivingly, letting go of the hurtful words spoken in anger.
  • She nodded forgivingly, understanding that everyone makes mistakes.

Examples of usage

  • She magnanimously forgave her friend for betraying her trust.
  • The CEO magnanimously donated a large sum of money to charity.
  • He accepted the apology magnanimously and moved on.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Famous literary figures like Shakespeare often portrayed characters who acted magnanimously, showing high moral values.
  • In various stories, acts of magnanimity become turning points that resolve conflicts or lead to deeper understanding between characters.
  • Classic novels often depict magnanimous behavior as a way to uplift others and demonstrate virtue in the face of adversity.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that magnanimous individuals report higher levels of happiness and well-being.
  • Forgiveness and generosity, key aspects of being magnanimous, have positive effects on mental health.
  • Psychologists argue that acts of kindness not only benefit others but also enhance the giver's self-esteem and sense of purpose.

Cultural Significance

  • Various cultures celebrate magnanimity, considering it a virtue that reflects personal and communal strength.
  • Philosophers throughout history, like Aristotle, emphasized the importance of magnanimous behavior in ethical conduct.
  • In many societies, being magnanimous is linked to leadership, with leaders expected to act generously towards their followers.

Pop Culture

  • Popular films often reveal characters who learn to be magnanimous by forgiveness and understanding, creating emotional resolutions.
  • Songs celebrating acts of kindness highlight how magnanimous gestures can inspire others and promote a sense of community.
  • Public figures who act magnanimously often become role models, demonstrating the impact of generosity to a wide audience.

Origin of 'magnanimously'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the Latin 'magnanimus', meaning 'great-hearted', reflecting a noble spirit.
  • It combines 'magnus' (great) and 'anima' (soul), emphasizing a grand and kind-hearted nature.
  • The word has been used in English since the late Middle Ages, showing its long-standing presence in literature.

The word 'magnanimously' originates from the Latin word 'magnanimus', which is a combination of 'magnus' (great) and 'animus' (soul, spirit). It first appeared in English in the 16th century, borrowed from the French 'magnanime'. The concept of magnanimity has roots in ancient philosophy, particularly in Aristotle's ethics, where it is considered a virtue of character.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,526 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.