What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
benign
Example
She has a benign personality and always treats others with kindness. [benign: adjective]
Example
The doctor assured me that the tumor was benign and did not pose any health risks. [benign: adjective]
gentle
Example
He has a gentle nature and is always there to lend a helping hand. [gentle: adjective]
Example
She gently stroked the cat's fur, making sure not to startle it. [gently: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gentle is more commonly used than benign in everyday language. Gentle is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while benign is primarily used in medical or technical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between benign and gentle?
While benign is associated with a more formal and technical tone, gentle is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in everyday conversations.
