Definition
A benevolent person, organization, or act is one motivated by goodwill — a genuine wish for the well-being of others. The word carries a sense of generosity flowing from a position of strength: a benevolent ruler, a benevolent donor, a benevolent smile from a mentor. Unlike 'nice', it suggests sustained, often institutional kindness, which is why charities were historically called benevolent societies.
Examples
- The library was built with a gift from a benevolent local industrialist.
- She gave the nervous student a benevolent smile and told him to take his time.
- The novel portrays the king as a benevolent but ultimately naive ruler.
Synonyms
kind · charitable · compassionate · generous · altruistic
In TOEFL & IELTS
Frequent in TOEFL and IELTS reading passages on history and social policy, often describing rulers, employers, or philanthropists. Watch for contrast structures in reading questions: a 'seemingly benevolent' policy is a common setup for an author who is about to criticize it. In speaking, it pairs naturally with topics about role models and charity.