kind to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kind to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a person's behavior towards someone else, indicating that they are considerate or compassionate. Example: "She was always kind to her younger siblings, making sure they felt loved and supported."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What kind to use?

The New York Times

Bowie was kind to me.

Independent

I'm being kind to them.

The New York Times - Arts

Marojejy was kind to us.

The New York Times

You're very kind to say so.

The New York Times

Prison was not kind to him.

The New Yorker

History will be kind to her.

The New York Times

Fiction has not been kind to cheerleaders.

The New York Times - Books

History is not kind to this assumption.

The New York Times

Communism was kind to Miskolc.

BBC

The draw wasn't kind to us.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "kind to", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. While generally positive, it can sometimes sound passive. Opt for stronger verbs like "support", "help", or "empathize" for more impactful writing.

Common error

Avoid using "kind to" as a default compliment. Instead of simply stating someone is "kind to" animals, specify the actions that demonstrate their kindness, such as "volunteers at the local animal shelter" or "donates regularly to animal welfare organizations".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kind to" typically functions as an adjectival phrase followed by a preposition, modifying a noun or pronoun by describing a quality of being benevolent or considerate towards someone or something. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples showing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

51%

News & Media

48%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "kind to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe someone's considerate behavior towards others. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. While its register is generally neutral, considering stronger verbs might enhance the impact of your writing. Avoid overuse by specifying actions rather than relying on this generic compliment. With its high frequency across both Wiki and News & Media sources, understanding its nuances is vital for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

caring for

Emphasizes active concern and support, often involving taking responsibility for someone's well-being.

considerate of

Focuses on thoughtfulness and awareness of other's needs and feelings.

compassionate toward

Emphasizes empathy and understanding, shifting the focus slightly from simple kindness to a deeper emotional connection.

sympathetic to

Highlights an understanding and sharing of another person's feelings, especially in times of suffering.

understanding of

Highlights empathy and tolerance, focusing on accepting and accommodating other's perspectives or situations.

generous with

Highlights the act of giving or sharing, whether it's resources, time, or affection.

humane to

Focuses on compassion and ethical treatment, particularly towards those who are vulnerable or suffering.

benevolent to

Suggests a formal and often charitable form of kindness, implying a position of authority or influence.

gracious toward

Implies politeness and elegance in showing kindness, particularly in response to a favor or compliment.

altruistic toward

Stresses selflessness and acting for the benefit of others, often without expecting personal gain.

FAQs

How can I use "kind to" in a sentence?

You can use "kind to" to describe someone's behavior toward another person, animal, or even themselves. For example, "She is always "kind to" her younger siblings" or "It's important to be "kind to" yourself when you're going through a difficult time."

What are some alternatives to saying "kind to"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "compassionate toward", "considerate of", or "generous with". These alternatives offer slightly different nuances of meaning.

Is it always appropriate to use "kind to"?

While "kind to" is generally appropriate, it's important to consider the specific context. In some formal settings, a more precise or descriptive phrase might be more effective. For instance, instead of saying someone is ""kind to" their employees", you could say they "offer excellent employee benefits and support professional development".

What is the difference between "kind to" and "being kind"?

"Kind to" typically describes a specific instance or pattern of behavior directed towards someone or something. "Being kind", on the other hand, is a broader character trait. For example, you might say "She is "kind to" animals" to describe her actions, but "She is known for "being kind"" to describe her overall personality.