beneficences

Acts of kindness

Beneficences is the plural of beneficence—acts of kindness, charity, or doing good for others.

The word carries a formal, almost old-fashioned tone, often appearing in discussions of philanthropy or moral philosophy: The hospital was built through the beneficences of wealthy donors.

It emphasizes generosity as deliberate action rather than mere good feeling.

charitable

donations

Gifts to organizations

giftsItems freely given
almsgivingGiving to the needy
philanthropyGenerous giving for others

endowments · grants · contributions · bequests · charitable giving · generosity · munificence · largesse · patronage · aid

moral

kindnesses

Benevolent acts toward others

good deedsHelpful, moral actions
virtuesPositive moral traits
compassionConcern for others' distress

altruism · humanitarianism · goodwill · mercy · grace · benevolence · magnanimity · selflessness · caring · gentleness

institutional

grants

Awarded funds for purposes

endowmentsDonated assets yielding income
fundingSupplying monetary resources
sponsorshipsPaid support agreements

fellowships · bursaries · trusts · foundations · charities · nonprofits · aid organizations · relief funds · welfare programs · patronage

Opposites

moral quality of action

beneficencesmalevolences

Active ill will

cruelties · harms · atrocities · injuries · wrongs

generosity vs. selfishness

beneficencesmiserliness

Excessive reluctance to spend

stinginess · selfishness · niggardliness · parsimony · meanness

Family

beneficence

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Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Abstract · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G