French word

gentil

Pronunciation

IPA/ʒɑ̃ti/

Meaning

  • adjectivekind

Example

Il est toujours gentil avec ses voisins.

He is always kind to his neighbors.

Illustration for gentil (kind)

More examples

Le serveur a été très gentil malgré la foule.

The server was very kind despite the crowd.

Core concept

A person whose manner toward others is warm, considerate, and courteous.

Common phrases

  • être gentil

    be kind

  • un geste gentil

    a kind gesture

  • trop gentil

    too kind

Similar words

aimable: Polite, pleasant, and calm in manner, creating a favorable impression.
sympathique: Likable and approachable, with a friendly manner.
chaleureux: Warm, friendly, and heartfelt in offering hospitality or company.
attentionné: Thoughtful and considerate of other people's small needs.

Definition in French

Qui témoigne de bienveillance ou de politesse envers les autres.

Word origin

French gentil comes through Old French from Latin gentilis, which originally referred to belonging to the same clan or people before developing senses of agreeable and kind behavior.

Usage tips

  • Gentil agrees in gender and number: gentil, gentille, gentils, and gentilles.

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word