How to Memorize

benign - kind

Analysis

Somebody ‘benign’ is well-intentioned and has a soft, kind disposition. Something described this way is considered gentle and entirely non-threatening to life or health. This word can be used in a variety of different contexts and to describe a range of qualities, all of which are positive.

Example(s)

1. The CEO likes to pretend that she’s a benign leader who cares about her staff. In reality, she rules with an iron fist.

2. Steven said that he took his decision for the good of the group, but I have serious doubts about the benignity of his intentions.

3. I felt I had to answer back to my manager. I just couldn’t sit there smiling benignly like others do while he peronally insulted me.