The Opposite(Antonym) of “beneficence”
The antonyms of beneficence are maleficence, cruelty, and selfishness. These words convey the opposite meaning of doing good or acting in a way that benefits others. They imply harm, malice, or disregard for others' well-being.
Explore all Antonyms of “beneficence”
Definitions and Examples of maleficence, cruelty, selfishness
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
The act of causing harm or evil, often intentionally.
Example
The villain's maleficence was evident in his cruel treatment of innocent people.
The act of causing pain or suffering to others, often with pleasure or indifference.
Example
Animal cruelty is a serious issue that needs to be addressed by society.
The quality of being concerned primarily with one's own interests, needs, or welfare, often at the expense of others.
Example
His selfishness made him blind to the needs and feelings of those around him.
Key Differences: maleficence vs cruelty vs selfishness
- 1Maleficence implies intentional harm or evil, while cruelty refers to causing pain or suffering with pleasure or indifference.
- 2Selfishness is a relational antonym that describes a person's focus on their own interests at the expense of others.
- 3Maleficence and cruelty are complementary antonyms that describe actions that cause harm, while selfishness is a relational antonym that describes a person's attitude towards others.
Effective Usage of maleficence, cruelty, selfishness
- 1Ethics: Use these antonyms to discuss ethical principles and moral values.
- 2Vocabulary: Incorporate these words into your vocabulary to express different shades of meaning.
- 3Writing: Utilize these antonyms in writing to create conflict, tension, and character development.
Remember this!
The antonyms of beneficence are maleficence, cruelty, and selfishness. These words convey the opposite meaning of doing good or acting in a way that benefits others. Use them to discuss ethics, enrich your vocabulary, and create conflict and character development in writing.
