acts of grace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acts of grace" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to actions that demonstrate kindness, mercy, or generosity, often in a context where someone is showing compassion or forgiveness. Example: "The charity's mission is to perform acts of grace for those in need, providing support and resources to help them rebuild their lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Acts of grace linger only in the memory of small things.

The New York Times

Your memory has inspired so many acts of grace in your name.

The New York Times

Pollock seems vigilant against acts of grace; whenever any flicker of light appears, he pinches it out with grim purpose.

The New York Times - Books

The story raises questions about what causes such horrors, but also how we should treat people who perform acts of grace within much larger acts of evil.

The New Yorker

But a city cannot be a great city if it is sustained merely on random acts of grace -- and private philanthropy.

The New York Times

It is society's task — through its courts, not through closed ecclesiastical conclaves or individual acts of grace — to determine redemption and punishment.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Only an act of grace can save them.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This contact "allowed" Bruno Schulz to perform one more act of grace, even after his death.

The New Yorker

Then, in a final act of grace and humility, she invites her embarrassment of a mother to accompany her to the party after the show.

The New Yorker

But when the girl in the blue dress appears, to save his honor, you feel, as with Copperfield, that an act of grace has occurred.

The New Yorker

Even the three-member naval appeal board chaired by Adm. Andrew H. Foote, which initially upheld the dismissal, unanimously recommended his reinstatement as "an act of grace and clemency".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "acts of grace" to describe specific instances where someone demonstrates exceptional kindness or forgiveness, especially in difficult circumstances.

Common error

Avoid using "acts of grace" to describe ordinary politeness or routine helpfulness. The phrase implies a significant level of compassion or generosity that goes beyond the norm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acts of grace" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes specific actions that are characterized by kindness, mercy, or generosity. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through various examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Huffington Post

20%

The New Yorker

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "acts of grace" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe actions characterized by exceptional kindness, mercy, or generosity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, and it serves to highlight and emphasize instances of compassion. While alternatives like "gestures of goodwill" or "deeds of compassion" exist, "acts of grace" carries a unique weight and is best used when describing actions that go beyond ordinary kindness. Remember to avoid overusing the phrase in everyday situations to maintain its impact and significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gestures of goodwill

This alternative focuses on the positive intention and friendly nature of the actions.

deeds of compassion

This phrase highlights the empathetic and caring aspect of the actions.

benevolent actions

This alternative emphasizes the charitable and generous nature of the acts.

merciful interventions

This phrase suggests acts of kindness that alleviate suffering or hardship.

charitable deeds

This focuses on the aspect of giving and helping those in need.

expressions of kindness

This alternative highlights the outward display of a caring attitude.

humanitarian efforts

This phrase broadens the scope to include organized and widespread acts of assistance.

altruistic gestures

This option stresses the selfless and unselfish nature of the actions.

acts of benevolence

This alternative underscores the desire to do good for others.

compassionate initiatives

This option suggests proactive and thoughtful actions driven by empathy.

FAQs

How can I use "acts of grace" in a sentence?

You can use "acts of grace" to describe moments of profound kindness or forgiveness. For example, "Despite the betrayal, she responded with "acts of grace", offering support instead of resentment."

What is a similar phrase to "acts of grace"?

Alternatives to "acts of grace" include "gestures of goodwill", "deeds of compassion", or "benevolent actions", depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

What distinguishes "acts of grace" from simple kindness?

"Acts of grace" typically involve a significant degree of empathy and generosity, often in the face of adversity or wrongdoing. Simple kindness may be routine, while "acts of grace" are more profound and impactful.

Is "act of grace" or "acts of grace" more commonly used?

While both forms exist, "acts of grace" is more commonly used to describe multiple instances or a pattern of kind behavior, while "act of grace" refers to a single, specific instance.