GRACE Synonyms: 193 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

grace 1 of 2

noun

ˈgrās

Definition of grace next

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

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as in elegance

dignified or restrained beauty of form, appearance, or style a beautiful actress who was the epitome of grace during her too-brief career

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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

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grace

2 of 2

verb

as in to adorn

to make more attractive by adding something that is beautiful or becoming I hope that you will grace our gathering with your presence

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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

With a cheeky tone and an irresistible soundtrack of millennial pop hits, Apple Cider Vinegar revels in both the grift and graces of the wellness world, while also chronicling the birth of Instagram and the rise of the influencer. —

Patrick Brzeski, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Feb. 2025 Give yourself grace, listen to what your body and mind need, and don’t feel guilty about following through on those needs. —

Nick Blackmer, Verywell Health, 10 Feb. 2025

Verb

Carol graced this world on November 22, 1935, in Savage. —

Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025 The luminaries gracing each panel star on some of TV's most popular and critically-acclaimed series, like Abbott Elementary, Outlander, and Cobra Kai. —

Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 5 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for grace

Recent Examples of Synonyms for grace

Noun

Take a moment to watch these other random acts of kindness captured on camera!

— Ronnie Li, USA TODAY, 10 Feb. 2025
The viral video left many TikTok users emotional and grateful for the couple's kindness.

— Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 7 Feb. 2025