Benefit
UK /["/ˈbenɪfɪt/"]/US /["/ˈbenɪfɪt/"]/
Definition
an advantage that something gives you; a helpful and useful effect that something has
In simple words: Something good that helps you or makes your life better.
Examples
- Regular exercise has many health benefits.
- One of the main benefits of this program is the flexibility it offers.
- The social benefits of volunteering can be very rewarding.
- Eating fruits and vegetables can provide numerous benefits to your body.
- She found that learning a new language can benefit her career.
Usage notes
Use 'benefit' when discussing advantages or positive outcomes. It's appropriate in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid in overly casual conversations.
Grammar pattern
benefit + from + object
Memory hint
Think of 'bene-' in benefit as 'good', like a 'bonanza' of good things.
Collocations
- considerable
- enormous
- great
- enjoy
- experience
- have
- accrue
- arise from something
- result from something
- for somebody’s benefit
- of benefit to
- to somebody’s benefit
- welfare
- state
- insurance
- amount
- level
- be eligible for
- be entitled to
- qualify for
- be paid
- benefits agency
- office
- payment
- on benefit
- fringe
- tax
- employee
- give
- receive
- extend
- plan
- benefits package
Synonyms
- advantage
- gain
- profit
- blessing
- value
Antonyms
- disadvantage
- harm
- loss
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'beneficial' which is an adjective.
- Using 'benefit' incorrectly in conjunction, e.g., 'benefit to' instead of 'benefit from'.