generous indulgence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generous indulgence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a willingness to overlook faults or to grant leniency in a situation. Example: "The teacher showed generous indulgence towards the students who struggled with the difficult material."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

With little experience and with less learning, I have been able to throw my thoughts hastily and imperfectly together; and trusting to your patient and generous indulgence, I will proceed to lay them before you.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But despite the endless puns and self-indulgences, it is generally an earnest, generous place where people genuinely want to help each other.

The Guardian

He was a shrewd businessman, yet generous to the point of indulgence with his many tenants, carrying some of them for months until they could manage to pay the rent--sometimes even if they couldn't pay.

The New York Times

It is also likely to be the best of the new London towers: it was conceived more than a decade ago, when building tall was still considered such a privilege that planners, like medieval priests selling indulgences, could demand such things from developers as the generous Popas and general quality of design.

The Guardian - Arts

The standard package holds two generous nine-ounce casseroles, each a one-person indulgence, or perhaps a share.

The New York Times - Food

The home-town audience for work made by young people can be incredibly generous, ready to ignore flaws and support every youthful indulgence with laughter and applause.

The Guardian

But perhaps another part of my luck was that, back in 1980, there still existed a generous tradition that first novels (and first novelists) should be treated with indulgence.

The Guardian - Books

An indulgence?

The New York Times

Birthday indulgence?

The New York Times

(The prices encourage indulgence).

The New Yorker

Her favorite noncaloric indulgence?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "generous indulgence" when you want to convey a sense of kindness and understanding in overlooking someone's flaws or mistakes. It is especially fitting when the person in question is new to something or inexperienced.

Common error

Avoid using "generous indulgence" in situations that demand strict adherence to rules or standards. The phrase implies a level of leniency that might be inappropriate in contexts requiring precision and accountability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generous indulgence" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "generous" modifies the noun "indulgence". The phrase typically describes the act of showing leniency or overlooking faults in a kind and considerate manner, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "generous indulgence" is a grammatically correct but infrequently used phrase that describes overlooking flaws with kindness. As supported by Ludwig AI, it functions as a noun phrase, typically used in a neutral to formal register, and is most commonly found in news and media contexts. While effective in conveying leniency with compassion, it's crucial to avoid overuse in situations demanding strict adherence to rules. Consider alternatives like "kind leniency" or "ample forgiveness" for clarity. The phrase embodies a sense of understanding, making it appropriate when acknowledging someone's inexperience or shortcomings with grace.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

kind leniency

Emphasizes the kindness aspect of overlooking faults.

ample forgiveness

Focuses on the act of forgiving generously.

benevolent tolerance

Highlights the act of being tolerant in a kind manner.

gracious forbearance

Uses more formal language to convey patient restraint.

magnanimous acceptance

Stresses accepting someone or something with a generous spirit.

understanding compassion

Highlights the compassionate understanding involved.

patient clemency

Emphasizes patience and mercy.

liberal allowance

Suggests a broad-minded acceptance of something.

charitable overlooking

Focuses on ignoring faults out of charity.

merciful lenience

Highlights the merciful aspect of being lenient.

FAQs

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

You can use "generous indulgence" to describe someone's willingness to overlook faults or mistakes, often with a sense of kindness or understanding. For example: "The teacher showed "generous indulgence" toward the students who struggled with the difficult material."

What are some alternatives to "generous indulgence"?

Alternatives include "kind leniency", "ample forgiveness", or "benevolent tolerance" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "generous indulgence"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the kindness and understanding with which someone is overlooking flaws. It implies a sense of leniency and grace.

Is "generous indulgence" a common phrase?

While grammatically correct, "generous indulgence" is not a very common phrase. You may want to consider using more common alternatives for better clarity and impact.