1
Core quality
Generous, forgiving, and noble in spirit, especially toward a rival or defeated opponent.
Example
The winner was magnanimous, praising her rival's contribution.
magnanimous
/mæɡˈnænɪməs/ · mag-NAN-ih-musadjective
Generous, forgiving, and noble in spirit, especially toward a rival or defeated opponent.
Use magnanimous to express this relationship precisely: generous, forgiving, and noble in spirit, especially toward a rival or defeated opponent.
What magnanimous Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Attributive or predicative use
Use this adjective before a suitable noun or after a linking verb such as be or seem.
Example
His magnanimous decision allowed the defeated faction a role in the new council.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact descriptive quality matters; a related word may overlap without conveying the same trait.
Example
The author responded to harsh criticism with a magnanimous acknowledgment of its valid points.
Use magnanimous Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The winner was magnanimous, praising her rival's contribution.
His magnanimous decision allowed the defeated faction a role in the new council.
The author responded to harsh criticism with a magnanimous acknowledgment of its valid points.
Precision Matters
Magnanimous overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
magnanimous
vs.Means generous, forgiving, and noble in spirit, especially toward a rival or defeated opponent.
benevolent
Means well-meaning, kindly, and inclined to help others.
magnanimous
vs.Means generous, forgiving, and noble in spirit, especially toward a rival or defeated opponent.
munificent
Means extremely generous, especially in giving money, resources, or gifts.
magnanimous
vs.Means generous, forgiving, and noble in spirit, especially toward a rival or defeated opponent.
scrupulous
Means extremely careful about details, accuracy, or ethical correctness.
magnanimous
vs.Means generous, forgiving, and noble in spirit, especially toward a rival or defeated opponent.
nefarious
Means wicked, immoral, or criminal.
Test magnanimous in Context
She behaves generously and nobly toward a rival after winning.
1
Rather than gloat after the debate, the ___ student publicly credited her opponent's strongest argument.