Basic Details
Word: Magnanimous
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Generous and forgiving, especially towards a rival or someone less powerful.
Synonyms: Generous, noble, forgiving
Antonyms: Mean, petty, selfish
Idioms and Phrases
- Magnanimous spirit: Refers to someone who shows kindness and understanding towards others, especially in difficult situations. Example: "Her magnanimous spirit was evident when she helped her friend after the mistake."
- To take the magnanimous approach: Choosing to be generous or understanding rather than vengeful. Example: "Instead of seeking revenge, he decided to take the magnanimous approach and forgive his friend."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The magnanimous leader chose to pardon those who disagreed with him, showing great character.
Example 2: After winning the game, Mary was magnanimous in victory, congratulating her opponent on a hard-fought match.
Example 3: His magnanimous nature made him well-liked among his peers, as he always offered help to those in need.
Fun Fact
The word "magnanimous" comes from the Latin roots "magnus," meaning "great," and "animus," meaning "soul" or "spirit." So, it literally means "great-souled," signifying a person with a noble spirit.
Famous Quote
"The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong." Mahatma Gandhi
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "magnanimous" mean?
a) Selfish and petty
b) Generous and forgiving
c) Angry and upset
d) Silent and shy
Answer: b) Generous and forgiving
2. Which of these is a synonym of "magnanimous"?
a) Jealous
b) Generous
c) Hostile
d) Indifferent
Answer: b) Generous
3. Which of these is an antonym of "magnanimous"?
a) Noble
b) Kind
c) Mean
d) Forgiving
Answer: c) Mean
4. Which sentence uses "magnanimous" correctly?
a) She was magnanimous, refusing to help her friends.
b) The magnanimous student shared his lunch with those who forgot theirs.
c) He was magnanimous when he shouted at his team.
d) The dog looked magnanimous, running away from others.
Answer: b) The magnanimous student shared his lunch with those who forgot theirs.
5. Which idiom means to be forgiving or generous?
a) A drop in the ocean
b) To take the magnanimous approach
c) Barking up the wrong tree
d) In the same boat
Answer: b) To take the magnanimous approach
