act kindly

USAGE SUMMARY

'act kindly' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used as an imperative. For example, you can use it in a sentence such as, "As a responsible citizen, act kindly towards all members of your community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

There's no "deep down", there's no "at heart" – rather, if you act mean all the time, then you are mean; and if you act kindly, you are kind.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

According to his theory of reciprocal altruism, we occasionally act kindly toward strangers because our ancestors — over time and in the aggregate — received a quid pro quo benefit from acts of generosity.

The New York Times - Books

The Victorians spoke much about "open-heartedness" and "benevolence", and there lingers a tweeness associated with the notion to this day; conversely, Freud's later legacy has us worried that any act of kindness must come from a selfish or even an aggressive place, where we act kindly only to be loved in return, or to manipulate or control.

The Guardian - Opinion

If you act kindly out of kindness, the results are positive; if you act kindly out of selfishness, the results are not so positive.

Huffington Post

Kindness is contagious, and when you act kindly, you inspire others to be kind too.

Huffington Post

A 2005 study, conducted by Jonathan Haidt of New York University, found that when managers were fair and self-sacrificing, employees experienced "elevation," a state of heightened well-being, and were more likely to feel loyal to their company and act kindly toward their co-workers.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

When a child acts kindly toward someone, Marjorie Taylor, a psychologist at the University of Oregon, suggests that saying something like "You're very kind for doing this" or "You're the kind of person who does nice things like that" can help make empathy a part of a young child's identity.

The New York Times - Health

So you acted kindly yesterday.

Huffington Post

We improve, act more kindly, show greater concern for others' welfare, and in that sense grow more moral.

The Guardian

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, mindful awareness has been shown to help students feel more accepted by peers, increase optimism, and act more kindly towards others.

Huffington Post

The man who'd had his dick out and erect earlier went from borderline committing sex acts to kindly holding the toilet door shut for women after the lock broke.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "act kindly" as a directive, ensure the context clearly indicates the desired behavior. For example, instead of simply stating "Act kindly", specify towards whom and in what manner kindness should be displayed.

Common error

Avoid using "act kindly" as a blanket statement without considering the specific needs and context of the situation. Kindness should be tailored to the individual and the circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "act kindly" primarily functions as an imperative, urging or advising someone to perform actions with kindness. It directs specific behavior, as supported by Ludwig, indicating its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

42%

News & Media

39%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "act kindly" is a grammatically sound imperative phrase commonly used to encourage prosocial behavior. Ludwig confirms its correct usage. It appears most frequently in Wiki and News & Media contexts, suggesting a neutral register. While it's generally recommended to tailor kindness to specific situations, using "act kindly" is an effective way to promote positive interactions. Alternatives like "behave kindly" or "show compassion" can offer nuanced variations, but "act kindly" remains a direct and accessible directive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

behave kindly

Focuses more on overall behavior rather than a specific action.

treat others with kindness

Emphasizes the recipient of the kindness.

show compassion

Implies a deeper level of empathy and understanding.

be considerate

Highlights thoughtfulness and awareness of others' needs.

demonstrate goodwill

Suggests a proactive and intentional display of positive intentions.

extend kindness

Focuses on actively offering kindness to others.

offer a kind gesture

Highlights a specific act of kindness.

be generous in spirit

Implies an underlying attitude of generosity that leads to kind actions.

practice empathy

Stresses the importance of understanding and sharing the feelings of others.

do good

A broader term encompassing any action that benefits others.

FAQs

How can I use "act kindly" in a sentence?

You can use "act kindly" as a directive or suggestion. For example, "During disagreements, remember to "act kindly", even if you don't agree with the other person's viewpoint."

What are some alternatives to "act kindly"?

Some alternatives to "act kindly" include "behave kindly", "show compassion", or "be considerate". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "act kindly"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Act" is used as an imperative verb, and "kindly" functions as an adverb modifying the verb.

What is the difference between "act kindly" and "be kind"?

"Act kindly" emphasizes a specific action or behavior, while "be kind" suggests a more general state of being or disposition. "Act kindly" focuses on what you do; "be kind" focuses on who you are.