beneficence

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "beneficence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an act of kindness or charity, or an individual who is generous with their time or resources. For example: "The town's mayor is known for her beneficence, using her own funds to help those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Saintly and heroic beneficence (and benevolence) are at the extreme end of a continuum of beneficent conduct and commitment.

SEP

Diddy – who may or may not have been downing as many martinis as Emma Thompson – was up on stage giving out awards, for some unknown reason, and one of the recipients of his beneficence was U2 (honestly, this was the night's low point).

The Guardian - Film

But the way to convey China's beneficence, might and centrality in the world order was to bestow gifts more valuable than the tribute rendered.

The Economist

But he won hearts, if not minds, by throwing lavish parties and opening his chequebook to British causes.Great as his beneficence was, it could be self-serving.

The Economist

To begin to answer these questions, it is necessary to take a short diversion into the nature of modern British political leadership.In Britain, as in most democracies, there is now less faith in the beneficence of government.

The Economist

If someone offers to realise your dream, why turn up your nose at the source?Still, the sudden fashion for beneficence has the smell of a trend about it.

The Economist

Even for those organisations whose impact is measured in sales, not beneficence, some of the recommendations are worth pondering.

The Economist

The Virginia National Defence Industrial Authority, an agency set up in 2005 to monitor the armed forces' economic impact in the state, notes that Virginia at $55 billion in fiscal 2008 is second only to Texas in total defence spending.Such beneficence helped keep Virginia in the Republican column in presidential elections for 44 years until Barack Obama, in 2008, broke the trend.

The Economist

Now, I remember when Bill Gates used to get plenty of heat from the class warriors, but some time after the world's wealthiest nerd devoted a huge portion of his fortune to his charitable foundation, he ascended to a sort of philanthropic secular sainthood a few notches short of Warrenus Buffetus of Omaha, his partner in spectacular beneficence.

The Economist

This amounts to an industrial revolution in what Rockefeller called the "business of beneficence".

The Economist

Lib Dem faith in the beneficence of public-sector producers knows no bounds.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "beneficence" to describe actions that genuinely aim to benefit others, especially in formal or ethical contexts. It conveys a strong sense of moral good.

Common error

Don't use "beneficence" when you mean benevolence. "Beneficence" is the act of doing good, while benevolence is the disposition or inclination to do good. One is an action, the other is a state of mind.

Linguistic Context

The noun "beneficence" functions as a descriptor of actions or qualities that promote good or well-being for others. Ludwig's examples show it's used to describe charitable actions, moral principles, and even qualities ascribed to a deity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "beneficence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun that describes acts of kindness, charity, and the promotion of well-being. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples across diverse domains. It's most common in science, news, and formal business contexts. Related phrases include "benevolent action" and "charitable giving". Remember to distinguish it from "benevolence", which refers to the disposition to do good rather than the action itself. Using "beneficence" appropriately can add a layer of moral weight to your writing, emphasizing the positive impact of actions and intentions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

benevolent action

Focuses on the action itself being kind and helpful.

charitable giving

Emphasizes the act of donating to charitable causes.

act of generosity

Highlights the generous nature of the action.

humanitarian aid

Specifically refers to assistance provided to those in need during crises.

philanthropic work

Implies involvement in organized efforts to improve society.

selfless service

Highlights the altruistic nature of helping others without expecting personal gain.

compassionate assistance

Emphasizes the empathy and care involved in providing help.

altruistic contribution

Focuses on the selfless contribution made to benefit others.

humane treatment

Highlights the importance of treating others with kindness and respect.

caring support

Emphasizes the emotional and practical support provided to those in need.

FAQs

How can I use "beneficence" in a sentence?

You can use "beneficence" to describe an act of kindness or charity. For example: "The hospital's "beneficence" extended to providing free healthcare for the poor."

What are some synonyms for "beneficence"?

Some synonyms for "beneficence" include "benevolent action", "charitable giving", and "act of generosity".

What is the difference between "beneficence" and benevolence?

"Beneficence" is the act of doing good, whereas benevolence is the disposition or inclination to do good.

In what contexts is "beneficence" most appropriately used?

"Beneficence" is often used in ethical, medical, and philosophical contexts to describe actions that benefit others. It's also appropriate in formal and academic writing.