benign
Adjective
Medium difficulty
What does “benign” mean?
adjective.gentle and kindly; (of a disease) not harmful in effect.
SAT Usage
This term often appears in passages discussing health, nature, or interpersonal relationships, emphasizing a sense of gentleness and harmlessness. It suggests a positive connotation, distinguishing it from words like "malignant," which implies danger or harm, thereby highlighting its role in conveying safety and kindness.
Common Confusions
Benign implies a gentle and harmless nature, while malignant usually suggests a dangerous and harmful quality.
Do not choose benign if the context emphasizes danger or harm rather than gentleness and kindness or a non-harmful disease.
Example Sentences
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The doctor confirmed the tumor was benign and harmless.
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The doctor confirmed that the tumor was benign and posed no serious threat.