magnanimous
Say it: mag-NAN-ih-mus /maɡˈnanɪməs/ · adjective
What “magnanimous” means
Generous and forgiving towards someone you could treat harshly.
More precisely: Generous and forgiving, especially towards a rival or someone less powerful.
When to use it
When someone treats a rival generously or forgives an offence. A formal compliment, especially after winning or gaining power.
Memory trick
Latin magnus means great and animus means soul: think of a generous, great soul.
Similar words
generous, big-hearted, gracious
Where it comes from
From Latin magnanimus, from magnus 'great' + animus 'soul'.
Quick check
After her rival apologises for an unfair remark, the winner forgives him and invites him to celebrate. She's…
triumphant or magnanimous?
Show the answer
magnanimous
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