Benevolence-Malevolence | Commonly Confused Words
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Master confusing words with ease

Benevolence vs. Malevolence

Benevolence

/bɪˈnɛvələns /
Kindness and willingness to do good to others

Examples:

Her benevolence was evident when she donated anonymously.The project was funded through his profound benevolence.Benevolence towards all creatures is her life's guiding principle.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Malevolence

/məˈlɛv(ə)l(ə)ns/
A strong desire to harm others or do evil

Examples:

He hid his malevolence behind charming smiles.The villain's malevolence was unmatched in the story.Her words dripped with subtle malevolence and disdain.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Malevolence contains mal, which is a root meaning bad or evil.
  • Benevolence contains ben, which is a root meaning good or well.
  • Think of malevolent as a malevolent villain with evil intentions.
  • Imagine benevolent as a benefactor who does good deeds.
  • Both terms end with volence, linking them but contrasting their moral implications.
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