B1adjective1K

Gentle

UK /["/ˈdʒentl/","/ˈdʒentlə(r)/","/ˈdʒentlɪst/"]/US /["/ˈdʒentl/","/ˈdʒentlər/","/ˈdʒentlɪst/"]/

Definition

calm and kind; doing things in a quiet and careful way

In simple words: Not strong or rough; kind and soft.

Examples

  • The gentle breeze made the hot day more bearable.
  • She spoke in a gentle tone that calmed the anxious child.
  • The gentle waves lapped at the shore, creating a soothing sound.
  • He has a gentle nature and always avoids conflict.
  • During the presentation, his gentle humor kept everyone engaged.

Usage notes

Use 'gentle' to describe people or actions that are kind and mild. It's appropriate in most contexts, but may seem too soft in very competitive or aggressive environments.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Imagine a gentle breeze that softly blows without being strong or harsh.

Collocations

  • appear
  • be
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • on
  • with
  • appear
  • be
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • on
  • with

Synonyms

  • tender
  • mild
  • soft
  • calm
  • kind

Antonyms

  • harsh
  • rough
  • violent

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'gentleman' which is a different word.
  • Using it to describe something strong or intense.
  • Mixing up with 'gently', which is an adverb.