Cool MateBeneficial
UK /["/ˌbenɪˈfɪʃl/"]/US /["/ˌbenɪˈfɪʃl/"]/
Definition
improving a situation; having a helpful or useful effect
In simple words: Something that helps or is good for you.
Examples
- A good diet is beneficial to health.
- They finally came to a mutually beneficial agreement.
- I think it would be beneficial for each committee member to have a copy of the report.
- Some alternative treatments may prove highly beneficial.
- We only fund projects we consider to be socially beneficial.
- Lowering salt intake has a beneficial effect on blood pressure.
- Relaxation classes can be beneficial to people of all ages.
- Work experience is usually highly beneficial for students.
Usage notes
Use 'beneficial' in formal writing or discussions about health, education, or any positive impact. Avoid in casual speech.
Grammar pattern
beneficial + to/for + object
Memory hint
Think of 'beneficial' as 'bene-fit' – something that gives you a good benefit.
Collocations
- be
- prove
- consider something
- extremely
- very
- highly
- for
- to
Synonyms
- advantageous
- helpful
- profitable
- favorable
- benefit
Antonyms
- harmful
- detrimental
- unhelpful
Common mistakes
- 'Beneficial' is often confused with 'benefit.'
- Some learners omit the preposition (to/for) after 'beneficial.'
- Conflicting 'beneficial' with the opposite, 'detrimental.'