WordGarden.iogenerosity
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /dʒˌɛnərˈɒsɪti/
US
- /ˌdʒɛnərˈɑsəti/
Meanings
Noun
willingness to give help, money, or kindness freely
the quality of being larger or more plentiful than expected
Beyond the definition
It isn't just about money; it's about being glad to share what you have. Think of the baker in town who does not have much himself, yet still slips an extra roll into the bag of someone having a hard time. That is the idea here. It can be shown by giving clothes or money, but also by giving time, care, patience, or forgiveness. A person like this makes life easier and warmer for others. Sometimes it means helping even when it is not easy, like giving up your only day off to help at a soup kitchen.
Generosity is the quality of being willing to give more of something—usually money, time, or kindness—than is strictly necessary or expected. It's about a heartfelt desire to share what you have with others, not out of obligation, but from a place of compassion and goodwill.
While often associated with material wealth ("a generous donation"), generosity extends far beyond finances. A generous person might offer their time to help a friend move, lend a listening ear to someone in need, or forgive an offense readily. It's about being open-handed and big-hearted.
The context of usage can vary. We talk about "acts of generosity" when describing charitable deeds, but also "generosity of spirit" when acknowledging someone's kind nature. You might say a teacher showed generosity in extending the deadline for an assignment, or that a community displayed generosity after a natural disaster by pooling resources to help those affected.
Historically, generosity was considered a virtue—a cornerstone of many ethical and religious systems. It's seen as a sign of inner wealth and a way to build stronger communities. Think of Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation in "A Christmas Carol"—his journey is one from stinginess to profound generosity. Ultimately, generosity isn't about how much you give, but the spirit with which it's offered.
Examples
- 1
Community support
We were touched by the generosity of our neighbors after the storm.
- 2
Time
His generosity with his time made the new employees feel welcome.
- Patterngenerosity with + resource
willingness to give a lot of it
- 3
Arts funding
The museum survives because of the generosity of local donors.
- 4
Kind act
It was a simple act of generosity, but she remembered it for years.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
After conflict
Even after the argument, she spoke about him with generosity.
- Phrasewith generosity
in a kind and fair way
- 6
Character
What I admire most about her is her generosity of spirit.
- Phrasegenerosity of spirit
a kind, forgiving attitude toward other people
See also
Similar
- open-handedness
- liberality
Shades of meaning
- benevolence
- largesse
- magnanimity
Contrast
- stinginess
- selfishness
Used with (collocations)
- show generosity
- an act of generosity
- generosity of spirit
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- generositynoun
Forms
- generositiespluralnoun