wohlwollend
benevolent
Definition & meaning
The German adjective wohlwollend describes a person or an action characterized by kindness, goodwill, or a positive, supportive attitude. It implies that someone has the best interests of another person in mind.
There are two primary ways the word is used:
- Kind or benevolent: Describing an attitude or a person who acts with genuine care, sympathy, or generosity toward others (e.g., a "benevolent mentor").
- Favorable or approving: Describing an opinion, judgment, or reception that is positive, lenient, or welcoming (e.g., a "favorable review" or "looking kindly upon an idea").
Grammar & Word origin
Grammar: Wohlwollend is an adjective that can be used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a verb). It is derived from the present participle of the verb wohlwollen .
Word origin: The word is a compound of two parts:
- Wohl: Meaning "well" or "welfare."
- Wollend: The present participle of wollen , meaning "to want" or "to will." Literally, it translates to "well-willing" or "wishing well."
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- Gütig (kind/benevolent)
- Wohlmeinend (well-meaning)
- Gnadenvoll (merciful/gracious)
- Aufgeschlossen (open-minded/receptive)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Die Nachbarn sprachen in einem wohlwollenden Ton mit uns.adjective
The neighbors spoke to us in a benevolent tone.
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