What does "benevolent" mean?

What does "benevolent" mean?

• A. Hostile and mean-spirited
• B. Well-meaning and kindly
• C. Self-serving and ambitious
• D. Apathetic and indifferent

Answer: (B)

The term "benevolent" refers to a disposition that is characterized by kindness and a desire to do good for others. When someone is described as benevolent, it implies that they have a genuine concern for the well-being of others and often engage in acts of kindness or charity. This aligns perfectly with the meaning of "well-meaning and kindly," which emphasizes an intention to help and a compassionate nature. In contrast, the other choices reflect attitudes or behaviors that are distinctly different from the essence of benevolence. For example, hostility or mean-spiritedness is the opposite of being kind, while being self-serving indicates a focus on one's own interests rather than the interests of others. Similarly, apathy and indifference suggest a lack of concern or care altogether, which is contrary to the proactive kindness implied by being benevolent. Thus, the choice that accurately captures the meaning of the word is the one that describes a kind and well-meaning attitude.

The term "benevolent" refers to a disposition that is characterized by kindness and a desire to do good for others. When someone is described as benevolent, it implies that they have a genuine concern for the well-being of others and often engage in acts of kindness or charity. This aligns perfectly with the meaning of "well-meaning and kindly," which emphasizes an intention to help and a compassionate nature.

In contrast, the other choices reflect attitudes or behaviors that are distinctly different from the essence of benevolence. For example, hostility or mean-spiritedness is the opposite of being kind, while being self-serving indicates a focus on one's own interests rather than the interests of others. Similarly, apathy and indifference suggest a lack of concern or care altogether, which is contrary to the proactive kindness implied by being benevolent. Thus, the choice that accurately captures the meaning of the word is the one that describes a kind and well-meaning attitude.