benefit
/ˈbɛnəfɪt/
Reviewed on
Also a verb
Meaning
An advantage, good result, or helpful effect gained from something.
Regular exercise provides an obvious benefit for cardiovascular health.
Did you notice any long-term benefits after changing your diet?
A payment, service, or perk provided by an employer or government program beyond standard wages.
The company offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes health insurance.
How many weeks of unemployment benefits did she receive?
A public performance, dinner, or social event held to raise money for a charitable cause.
The orchestra performed at a benefit for the local children's hospital.
Will you attend the annual benefit this weekend?
Collocations
- mutual benefit
- fringe benefit
- benefit concert
- benefit dinner
Synonyms
- advantage
- perk
Antonyms
- drawback
Idioms
give the benefit of the doubt
believe someone's statement or good intentions when doubt exists
I gave him the benefit of the doubt and assumed the delay was unintentional.
Meaning
To receive an advantage or improve one's situation because of something.
Many small businesses will benefit from the new tax policy.
Did patients benefit noticeably after participating in the clinical trial?
To be useful or helpful to someone or something.
The new transit line benefits commuters across the entire valley.
Lower interest rates have benefited home buyers in every price bracket.
How it's used
When this means “receive an advantage from something”
- benefit from the program
“benefit from it.”
Students benefit from smaller class sizes.
When this means “help someone directly”
- benefit the community
“benefit them.”
The grant will benefit local schools.
Collocations
- benefit from
- benefit greatly
Antonyms
- harm