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Question

Difficulty: EasyRoot Word Analysis

The organization was recognized for its benevolent mission to support families facing sudden hardships. What does the word benevolent mean in this context?

  1. kindheartedAnswer
  2. B
    malicious
  3. C
    profitable
  4. D
    hesitant

Answer

The word 'benevolent' most nearly means 'kindhearted'.
The word 'benevolent' comes from the Latin prefix 'bene-' (meaning 'good' or 'well') and the root 'vol' (from 'velle', meaning 'to wish'). Thus, someone or something that is benevolent wishes well upon others, making 'kindhearted' the correct synonym.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core Latin roots within the target word 'benevolent'.
The word breaks down into 'bene-' (meaning good, well) and 'vol' (meaning to wish or will).
Analyzing the morphological components helps determine the literal and conventional definition.
2
Synthesize the root meanings to determine the intended definition.
'Benevolent' describes someone or something characterized by goodwill or expressing goodwill and kindly feelings.
Combining 'good' and 'wishing' produces the meaning of being charitable or kindhearted.
3
Match the synthesized definition to the closest answer option.
'Kindhearted' precisely captures the meaning of having or showing goodwill.
Selecting the option that best preserves the positive root meaning yields the correct synonym.

Key Concept

Root Word Analysis (bene- / vol-)
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Topics

Root Word Analysis

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