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

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
Complete the look with a pair of flip-flops for an outfit that’s equal parts polished and relaxed, or swap in kitten heels or ballet flats for a bit more grace. Kelsey Stewart, Glamour, 6 June 2026 Magnificent versions of both grace the new Obama Presidential Center on the South Side of Chicago. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 4 June 2026
Verb
Jennifer Garner graced the cover of InStyle's Summer Issue. Christina Perrier, InStyle, 3 June 2026 In this collection of articles, prepare to immerse yourself in the profound tapestry of Indigenous culture, witness the spellbinding performances that grace Edmonton's Fringe Festival, and maybe even stumble upon a fossil or two. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for grace
Recent Examples of Synonyms for grace
Noun
  • This seemingly random act of kindness is not without strings, as DeMille alludes to working together more in the future.
    Emily Blackwood, PEOPLE, 5 June 2026
  • Watching together gives parents a chance to support kids in thinking critically about social dynamics and how to respond with kindness and courage.
    Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 5 June 2026
Noun
  • Bespoke millwork adds instant architectural elegance, like in this luxurious bathroom by Harper Harris Design.
    Sophie Aliece Hollis, Martha Stewart, 11 June 2026
  • Just off Bamberg’s lively, strollable core is Hotel Villa Geyersworth, a four‑star, 40‑key property blending modern comfort with quiet old‑town elegance and well‑kept gardens.
    David Dickstein, Oc Register, 10 June 2026
Noun
  • While visiting Shoshone, take advantage of scenic drives to some of the surrounding sites.
    Meghan Palmer, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 June 2026
  • But the 34-year-old right-hander couldn’t hold Kansas City’s slim advantage for the entirety of his outing.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 6 June 2026
Verb
  • The dial is adorned with diamond hour markers and the signature Constellation star for extra sparkle.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 6 June 2026
  • Then on June 17, the slightly wider lunar crescent will appear just a couple of degrees to the left of brilliant Venus; the two brightest objects in the night sky adorning the west-northwest evening sky.
    Joe Rao, Space.com, 5 June 2026
Noun
  • At the same time, the resolution calls for humane immigration policies that uphold justice and mercy, strongly rejecting nativism, discrimination and racial or ethnic hostility.
    Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 10 June 2026
  • Before he was sentenced, his mother pleaded for mercy.
    Stepheny Price , Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 9 June 2026
Noun
  • Ultimately, though, no words can truly do justice to the majesty of their play.
    Will Jeanes, New York Times, 5 June 2026
  • The team leapt to a 2-0 lead early in the first half thanks to the majesty and refreshing return-to-form of Christian Pulisic, who assisted on the first goal and finished off the second.
    Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 1 June 2026
Noun
  • The distinction was particularly evident in Pacific Palisades, where residents are still navigating the aftermath of the devastating 2025 wildfire, and rebuilding has been slow.
    Barnini Chakraborty, The Washington Examiner, 8 June 2026
  • But the exhibition and the scholarship, though occasionally a bit fawning, show why the value of Lewis’s art doesn’t hang on these distinctions.
    Zachary Fine, New Yorker, 8 June 2026
Verb
  • References to nomads of the Kazakh steppe and local symbolism abound in the label, as seen in the heavy glass bottles recalling nomads’ flasks and decorated with handmade pendants in the form of old coins engraved with the emblem of each fragrance.
    Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 9 June 2026
  • Inside are a series of smaller, more intimate rooms frescoed with Pompeian miniatures, and decorated with period furniture and family heirlooms.
    Ruchira Sharma, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Grace.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/grace. Accessed 12 Jun. 2026.

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