a most generous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a most generous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the degree of generosity being described, often in a formal or literary context. Example: "She made a most generous donation to the charity, which will greatly benefit those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

A most generous, but unrealistic offer.

Independent

Frances was always learning and giving from a most generous heart.

The New York Times

Walter was a most generous and insightful man, with humor always ready.

The New York Times

She was a most generous and supportive, and caring member of our congregation.

The New York Times

A survivor of Auschwitz and a proud New Yorker she was a most generous and caring individual to all.

The New York Times

A most generous and kind person, admired and beloved by so many who will greatly miss her.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

As a man of letters and a man of Dorset, as a writer most generous to other writers and someone whose gentle presence was a kindly feature of the literary landscape of his day, he will be greatly missed.

The Guardian - Books

Smith, who had attended the Society of Connoisseurs in Murder, remembered McDade "as a devoted lover of books, an assiduous researcher, a conscientious guardian of the truth, an accomplished writer, and a man most generous to all who sought his help".

The New Yorker

Patrick was the last of a generation, a true gentleman, the most generous that I ever knew; an inspiration to thousands in his personal life and to millions through his 50 years of unique broadcasting.

The Guardian

Avalon, which presented him with a Kindle, was most generous, but Cohen also received an M&S hamper from Splice and some Fortnum & Mason tea and biscuits courtesy of Garrow's Law maker Twenty Twenty.

The Guardian

A public armed with information about a candidate's most generous supporters is better able to detect any postelection special favors that may be given in return... Third, and not least significant, record-keeping, reporting, and disclosure requirements are an essential means of gathering the data necessary to detect violations of the contribution limitations described above.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a most generous" to add a touch of formality or emphasis when describing someone's giving nature or actions. It's particularly effective in commemorative speeches, formal letters, or when you want to convey deep appreciation.

Common error

Avoid using "a most generous" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted in everyday contexts where simpler alternatives like "very generous" or "extremely generous" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a most generous" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to emphasize the high degree of generosity. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability, indicating that it is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a most generous" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that functions as an adjective phrase to emphasize a high degree of generosity. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is effective for expressing admiration, gratitude, or appreciation. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, its formal tone makes it suitable for expressing heartfelt sentiments or formal recognitions. Remember to use it thoughtfully to add emphasis and elegance to your writing while avoiding overuse in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exceptionally generous

Emphasizes the exceptional nature of the generosity.

a remarkably generous

Highlights the remarkable quality of the generosity.

an extremely generous

Focuses on the extreme level of generosity.

a very generous

Offers a simpler, more direct way to express generosity.

an extraordinarily generous

Stresses the extraordinary aspect of the generosity.

a highly generous

Indicates a high degree of generosity.

an abundantly generous

Suggests that generosity is plentiful or overflowing.

a lavishly generous

Implies generosity is extravagant and abundant.

a munificent

Uses a more formal term to describe great generosity.

a magnanimous

Highlights the noble and forgiving aspect of generosity.

FAQs

How can I use "a most generous" in a sentence?

You can use "a most generous" to describe acts of giving, such as "She made "a most generous donation" to the museum" or to characterize a person, such as "He was "a most generous host" during our stay".

What are some alternatives to "a most generous"?

Alternatives include "very generous", "extremely generous", "exceptionally generous", or "remarkably generous". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of emphasis you wish to convey.

Is "a most generous" more formal than "very generous"?

Yes, "a most generous" is generally considered more formal than "very generous". It adds a touch of elegance or emphasis that might be suitable for formal occasions or when expressing deep gratitude.

When is it best to use "a most generous" over other options?

Use "a most generous" when you want to emphasize the exceptional nature of someone's generosity or when you're aiming for a formal and sophisticated tone. It’s particularly effective in expressing gratitude or admiration in writing.