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kind

[kahynd] / kaɪnd /






Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for kind?
The word kind is most commonly used in two very different ways: as an adjective meaning benevolent and as a noun meaning type. There are several synonyms for each. benevolent Kind is an adjective describing someone (or their actions) as good and benevolent. The adjectives loving and caring can mean the same thing. Synonyms that imply that a person is generally kind include the related words kindly and kindhearted (and the similar words goodhearted, bighearted, warmhearted, and tenderhearted). The term good-natured is sometimes used in this way. Being kind is often thought of as more than simply being polite or nice. (See more about the difference between kind and nice in the section below.) Words that imply an active form of benevolence include charitable, compassionate, and altruistic. Considerate and thoughtful suggest that a person actively thinks about how to treat others well. The word empathetic is often used in this way. type Kind is also commonly used to mean type, as in What kind/type of car are you shopping for? The words class, category, and sort can be used to mean the same thing. The words brand and breed both have more specific meanings, but can also be used in general contexts (often in a slightly figurative way). This is the sense of kind used in one of a kind.
What is a better word for kind?
Kind is a somewhat general term. Perhaps the best substitute for kind is the word that’s the most specific—the one that best fits what you’re trying to describe. Words like charitable, compassionate, and empathetic are all more specific, each suggesting something slightly different about how someone behaves or treats others. Still, if someone is generally kind, this may be simply the best way to describe them.
How is kind different from nice?
Kind and nice are often used as synonyms. However, it’s possible to be nice but not kind. Kindness is often seen as more active and benevolent. Someone who’s considered nice is polite and friendly. But that doesn’t mean they do good things for people or help others. In other words, kind describes people who are benevolent, helpful, and unselfish, while nice typically describes people who are simply pleasant to be around. Of course, the two often overlap.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

That audit, the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, continues to help shape policy, treatment, and services.

From BBC Jul. 28, 2026

“It’s great that it’s here. It’s kind of bad that we’re the guinea pigs.”

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 28, 2026

A supply shock would create the worst kind of trade-off for Warsh and the Fed.

From MarketWatch Jul. 28, 2026

In my perfect version, the yolk breaks over the hot rice and mingles immediately with the lemon zest, becoming a kind of lazy hollandaise.

From Salon Jul. 28, 2026

It gave him some kind of twisted pleasure.

From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold

“These kinds of financing usually don’t end well,” Goldberg added.

From MarketWatch Jul. 27, 2026

He adds that Iran's "capacity to produce, at scale, the kinds of missiles, drones and other weapons systems" it needs has been largely destroyed.

From BBC Jul. 27, 2026

While large-scale competition shows are eligible for the state’s tax credit, such as Jimmy Kimmel’s “Schooled!” science experiment series for kids, other kinds of popular reality TV shows cannot apply for production incentives.

From Los Angeles Times Jul. 23, 2026

First, though, they participated in the same kinds of experiments that grade-schoolers might try on a field trip.

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 23, 2026

They were laughing and looking around to see what other kinds of fun they could have, and the whole bunch of them were just plain happy.

From "Ida B" by Katherine Hannigan

The "Country Roads" appeal lies in the way it conveys "a kinder, simpler era with less conflict and division," said Doug Hartmann, a sociology professor at the University of Minnesota.

From Barron's Jul. 5, 2026

The practice involves less intensive growing methods to be kinder to the environment.

From The Wall Street Journal Jun. 23, 2026

Would I emerge kinder, more resilient—or plagued with unexpected self-consciousness about one of the few areas of my life for which I haven’t felt self-conscious?

From Slate May 10, 2026

“Aaron’s kinder than he is talented, which is crazy,” Christopher said.

From Los Angeles Times Apr. 22, 2026

For one thing, his life was already little better than slavery; for all he knew, the lordly stranger on the great horse might be kinder to him than Arsheesh.

From "The Horse and His Boy" by C.S. Lewis

"You was the kindest person I knew with a heart of gold. Do anything for anyone. Loved by everyone who met you. I can't describe how much I will miss you."

From BBC Jul. 26, 2026

Inevitable as Funches’ dismissal was, witnessing the quiet camaraderie blossom between him and Rausch was one of the kindest, warmest subplots of an especially ruthless season.

From Salon Jun. 20, 2026

Within hours, Claire was in touch with some of the kindest top cancer minds in the country.

From The Wall Street Journal May 14, 2026

"I saw someone with the kindest heart who just wanted to be great," the 32-year-old said.

From BBC Mar. 4, 2026

Louvenia, she is the purest, kindest person they is.

From "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett




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