Sunday, July 15, 2007

Malevolent vs. Benevolent

Okay, make sure you get these straight because I'm tired of seeing them getting mixed up in newspapers.

Malevolent:
1. wishing evil or harm to another or others; showing ill will; ill-disposed; malicious: His failures made him malevolent toward those who were successful.
2. evil; harmful; injurious: a malevolent inclination to destroy the happiness of others.
3. Astrology. evil or malign in influence.

Benevolent:
1. characterized by or expressing goodwill or kindly feelings: a benevolent attitude; her benevolent smile.
2. desiring to help others; charitable: gifts from several benevolent alumni.
3. intended for benefits rather than profit: a benevolent institution.

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