Philanthropic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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philanthropic
[ˌfɪl.ənˈθrɑː.pɪk ]
Definition
in charitable activities
Showing a desire to help others, especially by giving money to good causes; characterized by a desire to promote the welfare of others.
Synonyms
altruistic, benevolent, charitable, generous.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| philanthropic |
Used to describe actions or organizations aimed at improving the well-being of humanity, often through donations or aid. This word is often used in formal contexts.
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| charitable |
Typically used when referring to giving money, goods, or time to charitable organizations or those in need. This word is often used in contexts related to formal charity work.
|
| altruistic |
Used to describe a selfless concern for the well-being of others, without any expectation of reward. This word is often used when emphasizing the purity of someone's motives.
|
| benevolent |
Describes acts or people who are kind and willing to help others. It carries a positive connotation but is less about large-scale charity and more about general kindness and good will.
|
| generous |
Refers to the willingness to give more of something, like time or money, than is expected or necessary. It is often used in everyday conversations to describe someone's giving nature.
|
Examples of usage
- He is known for his philanthropic efforts to support education in underprivileged communities.
- Many wealthy individuals engage in philanthropic activities to give back to society.
- The foundation was established with a philanthropic mission to improve healthcare access for all.
- She received an award for her philanthropic contributions to environmental conservation.
- The company's philanthropic initiatives focus on supporting local communities.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- In ancient societies, acts of kindness were often linked to religious duties and communal responsibility.
- The rise of the industrial age saw the emergence of wealthy individuals who became major philanthropists, such as Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller.
Impact
- Philanthropy can address social issues like healthcare, education, and poverty, leading to significant societal changes.
- Many modern philanthropic efforts focus on sustainability and addressing climate change, illustrating a shift in priorities.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'The Pursuit of Happyness' highlight the importance of helping others and the struggles surrounding philanthropy.
- Celebrity philanthropy is a driving force today, with stars like Taylor Swift and Oprah Winfrey using their platforms to give back.
Psychology
- Research suggests that altruistic behavior, like philanthropy, can lead to increased happiness and fulfillment.
- The 'helper's high' is a psychological effect where doing good for others releases endorphins and boosts mood.
Origin of 'philanthropic'
Main points about word origin
- The word has Greek roots, where 'philos' means loving and 'anthropos' means human, thus meaning 'loving humans.'
- The term began to gain popularity in Europe during the 19th century, especially in relation to charitable organizations.
The word 'philanthropic' originates from the Greek word 'philanthropos', which is a combination of 'philos' (loving) and 'anthropos' (human being). The concept of philanthropy dates back to ancient civilizations, where individuals would make significant donations to support various causes. Over time, philanthropy has evolved to encompass a wide range of charitable activities aimed at improving the well-being of others.
See also: philanthropist, philanthropists.