Openhandedly: meaning, definitions and examples

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openhandedly

 

[ˈoʊpənˈhændɪdli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a generous or open-hearted manner

Acting openhandedly means being generous and giving freely without hesitation or reluctance.

Synonyms

bountifully, generously, liberally.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
openhandedly

Use this word when describing someone who gives without holding back or expecting anything in return, often in a very personal and heartfelt manner.

  • She donated openhandedly to the orphanage every month.
  • He openhandedly offered his help to anyone in need.
generously

Use this word to describe when someone gives freely and with kindness, reflecting a positive attitude and goodwill.

  • He generously gave his time to help students.
  • She generously donated to multiple charities.
liberally

This word is best when talking about giving in large amounts or in a way that is not restricted, but be mindful that it can sometimes imply a lack of caution. It may also be used in political or ideological contexts.

  • He applied the paint liberally on the wall.
  • Funds were distributed liberally among the departments.
bountifully

This word fits well when referring to giving in a large quantity, often emphasizing the abundance of what is given. It can also be used in the context of nature or the earth’s generosity.

  • The earth produces bountifully every harvest season.
  • They shared their wealth bountifully with the community.

Examples of usage

  • She openhandedly donated a large sum of money to the charity.
  • He always treats his friends openhandedly, never expecting anything in return.
Context #2 | Adverb

without reservation or concealment

To act openhandedly is to do so openly and transparently, without hiding intentions or motives.

Synonyms

candidly, forthrightly, frankly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
openhandedly

Use when talking about someone who is generous with their resources, such as money, time, or help.

  • She donated openhandedly to the charity
  • He always acts openhandedly, never hesitating to lend a hand
frankly

Best used when someone is speaking or behaving in an honest and blunt way, sometimes with a sense of urgency or frustration.

  • Frankly, I think we need to reconsider our strategy
  • She frankly told him what she thought about his behavior
candidly

Appropriate when discussing someone who is being honest and straightforward, especially in difficult or sensitive situations.

  • She spoke candidly about her experiences with the project
  • I appreciate his candidly sharing his concerns
forthrightly

Use when describing someone who addresses issues directly and without evasion. It's often used in formal or professional contexts.

  • The manager forthrightly addressed the team's mistakes
  • He forthrightly stated his position on the matter

Examples of usage

  • She shared her plans openhandedly with the team, seeking their input and feedback.
  • He conducted the negotiations openhandedly, revealing all relevant information.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from two parts: 'open,' meaning not closed, and 'hand,' which refers to giving or sharing.
  • Etymologically, 'hand' in many cultures symbolizes help, support, and generosity.
  • The concept of giving openhandedly has roots in many languages, symbolizing kindness and trust.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, generosity is a highly valued trait, often associated with community and collective well-being.
  • Openhandedness is celebrated in various folklore and stories, where heroes often share their riches with those in need.
  • Many religious texts encourage followers to act openhandedly, emphasizing charity and support as core virtues.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that acts of giving and generosity can lead to increased happiness and fulfillment in individuals.
  • Openhanded behavior can create stronger social connections, as sharing fosters trust and mutual respect.
  • Psychological studies indicate that people who give without expecting anything often have lower stress levels and better mental health.

Literature

  • Literary works often depict characters who are generous, portraying them as heroes or role models for their communities.
  • Concepts of openhandedness appear in classic literature, emphasizing themes of wealth and social responsibility.
  • Poets sometimes use openhandedness as a metaphor for love and kindness, illustrating the beauty of sharing.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers have long debated the ethics of giving, pondering what it means to be truly generous.
  • Acts of openhandedness are often linked to altruism, where individuals prioritize the welfare of others above themselves.
  • Existential thinkers may argue that openhandedness reflects a deeper understanding of human connection and interdependence.

Translations

Translations of the word "openhandedly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 generosamente

🇮🇳 उदारतापूर्वक

🇩🇪 großzügig

🇮🇩 dengan murah hati

🇺🇦 щедро

🇵🇱 hojnie

🇯🇵 気前よく (きまえよく)

🇫🇷 généreusement

🇪🇸 generosamente

🇹🇷 cömertçe

🇰🇷 관대하게 (gwandae하게)

🇸🇦 بسخاء

🇨🇿 štědře

🇸🇰 štedro

🇨🇳 慷慨地 (kāngkǎi de)

🇸🇮 radodarno

🇮🇸 örlátlega

🇰🇿 жомарттықпен

🇬🇪 გულუხვად (guluqvad)

🇦🇿 səxavətlə

🇲🇽 generosamente