grace 1 of 2

Definition of gracenext
1
as in kindness
an act of kind assistance in Victor Hugo's novel, Les Misérables, Jean Valjean's decision to go to jail for the man mistaken for him is a grace that goes beyond thanks

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
as in advantage
a quality that gives something special worth as if taste were not enough, red wine has the added grace of being healthy for the heart

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

grace

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun grace differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of grace are charity, clemency, leniency, and mercy. While all these words mean "a disposition to show kindness or compassion," grace implies a benign attitude and a willingness to grant favors or make concessions.

by the grace of God

When is charity a more appropriate choice than grace?

In some situations, the words charity and grace are roughly equivalent. However, charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others.

show a little charity for the less fortunate

When is it sensible to use clemency instead of grace?

While in some cases nearly identical to grace, clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing.

the judge refused to show clemency

In what contexts can leniency take the place of grace?

While the synonyms leniency and grace are close in meaning, leniency implies lack of severity in punishing.

criticized the courts for excessive leniency

When might mercy be a better fit than grace?

The words mercy and grace can be used in similar contexts, but mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it.

threw himself on the mercy of the court

How does the noun grace differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of grace are charity, clemency, leniency, and mercy. While all these words mean "a disposition to show kindness or compassion," grace implies a benign attitude and a willingness to grant favors or make concessions.

by the grace of God

When is charity a more appropriate choice than grace?

In some situations, the words charity and grace are roughly equivalent. However, charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others.

show a little charity for the less fortunate

When is it sensible to use clemency instead of grace?

While in some cases nearly identical to grace, clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing.

the judge refused to show clemency

In what contexts can leniency take the place of grace?

While the synonyms leniency and grace are close in meaning, leniency implies lack of severity in punishing.

criticized the courts for excessive leniency

When might mercy be a better fit than grace?

The words mercy and grace can be used in similar contexts, but mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it.

threw himself on the mercy of the court

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of grace
Noun
Those who have followed along with the author’s oeuvre (14 books, now) will appreciate the grace tempering his ever-sharp wit. Bethanne Patrick, Los Angeles Times, 1 May 2026 The grace window is over and fines become effective on May 18, said Elmo Lugo, a school district spokesman. David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 1 May 2026
Verb
Taylor is considered by many to be the greatest linebacker of all time, and possibly the best defender to ever grace the gridiron. Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 28 Apr. 2026 Come May 10 in Los Angeles, Hernández will headline the biggest Spanish-language comedy show ever to grace the Hollywood Bowl, as part of the Netflix Is a Joke comedy festival. Suzy Exposito, Los Angeles Times, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for grace
Recent Examples of Synonyms for grace
Noun
  • There is little reason to think that Leon, who has already ruled against the government, will look with particular kindness on this experiment in literary form.
    Quinta Jurecic, The Atlantic, 3 May 2026
  • As the intuitive Scorpio Moon harmonizes with expansive Jupiter this morning, kindness and perspective flow naturally, helping conversations feel more open and supportive.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 2 May 2026
Noun
  • This 50-room boutique hotel in the French Quarter of Charleston aims to nurture a sense of relaxation and comfort, elegance and warm hospitality.
    Asa Canty, Travel + Leisure, 29 Apr. 2026
  • For many women of color, the slick-back bun was, and is, a perfect intersection of elegance and endurance.
    Elizabeth Gulino, Allure, 28 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The 76ers led by as many as 15 in the quarter and carried a 32-19 advantage into the second quarter.
    Kyle Hightower, Chicago Tribune, 3 May 2026
  • American Heritage-Delray jumped out to a 7-0 lead at the end of the first, had a 12-0 advantage at halftime and a 17-0 lead entering the fourth.
    Alex Kushel, Sun Sentinel, 3 May 2026
Verb
  • The old-fashioned accent has recently gained a newfound popularity of late—particularly creative people are even adorning their lamps with brooches.
    Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 1 May 2026
  • The star opted for a jaw-dropping gown by Ashi Studio that featured an ivory corseted bodice adorned with twisted tendrils of dark hair.
    Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 1 May 2026
Noun
  • Sturm then gave Swayman the mercy pull, which frankly could have happened after the disastrous first.
    Stephen Conroy, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2026
  • Leading only 3-0 after 3, the Owls brought up 16 batters to the plate and scored 11 runs, 8 with 2 outs, in the bottom fourth to activate the mercy rule.
    Darren Lauber, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • In fact, music, the majesty and mystery thereof, is a theme to which Simon has returned time and again.
    New York Times, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2026
  • To appreciate the majesty of the Atlantic from your balcony, splurge on one of the upper-floor ocean-view options.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Among its many distinctions, SPLC is known for bankrupting the Ku Klux Klan.
    Clarence Page, Chicago Tribune, 27 Apr. 2026
  • The distinction between users and professionals is sometimes clear and other times not so obvious.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 27 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Cakes big and small are the ideal stage for your wildest decorating dreams.
    Shilpa Uskokovic, Bon Appetit Magazine, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Each of the suites are decorated with the same Mediterranean style and have private patios and balconies perfect for watching the sunset.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Grace.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/grace. Accessed 4 May. 2026.

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