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benign

Adjective

IPA /bɪˈnaɪn/

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Meaning in plain English

Kind and gentle in manner, giving no impression of wanting to hurt or upset anyone.

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Pronunciation

benign/bɪˈnaɪn/

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A gentle expression
A kind, unthreatening manner

A benign person appears kind and unlikely to cause harm.

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His benign smile helped the nervous child feel welcome.
The tutor's benign manner made it easier for students to ask questions.

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benign — Kind and gentle in manner, giving no impression of wanting to hurt or upset anyone.

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Kind and gentle in manner, giving no impression of wanting to hurt or upset anyone.

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Word origin

From Old French benigne and Latin benignus, a word associated with kindness.

Did you know?

Benign can describe an expression or manner; it also has separate medical uses.

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