Basic Details
Word: Benevolence
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The quality of being kind and generous to others.
Synonyms: Kindness, goodwill, charity
Antonyms: Malevolence, cruelty, hostility
Idioms and Phrases
- Acts of benevolence: Refers to kind actions that are done to help others. Example: "Her acts of benevolence included volunteering at the local soup kitchen every week."
- Benevolence of heart: Describes a person's natural inclination to be generous or kind. Example: "His benevolence of heart made him well-loved by everyone in the community."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Benevolence can be seen in the way the charity organisation helps those less fortunate.
Example 2: The teacher showed great benevolence when she spent extra time helping struggling students.
Example 3: Many people admired her for her benevolence and willingness to give to those in need.
Fun Fact
The word "benevolence" comes from the Latin word "benevolentia," which means "good will." It has been used in the English language since the 14th century to describe acts of kindness and generosity.
Famous Quote
"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." Aesop
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "benevolence" mean?
a) A feeling of anger
b) The quality of being kind and generous
c) A type of food
d) A form of exercise
Answer: b) The quality of being kind and generous
2. Which of these is a synonym of "benevolence"?
a) Kindness
b) Anger
c) Fear
d) Jealousy
Answer: a) Kindness
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "benevolence"?
a) Charity
b) Malevolence
c) Generosity
d) Compassion
Answer: b) Malevolence
4. Which sentence uses "benevolence" correctly?
a) Her benevolence was evident when she stole the money.
b) His benevolence shone through when he donated to the shelter.
c) The frog showed benevolence by jumping across the pond.
d) She expressed benevolence by being unkind to her friends.
Answer: b) His benevolence shone through when he donated to the shelter.
5. Which idiom relates to "benevolence"?
a) Acts of benevolence
b) A penny for your thoughts
c) Burn the midnight oil
d) Behind the scenes
Answer: a) Acts of benevolence
