philanthropy
fuh-LAN-thruh-pee
/fɪˈlæn.θrə.pi/
The desire to promote the welfare of others, expressed especially by the generous donation of money to good causes.
Focuses on strategic, systemic efforts to solve social problems, distinct from casual charity.
The story behind the word. Coined in ancient Greece from 'philos' (loving) and 'anthropos' (humanity). Prometheus was originally described by Aeschylus as having 'philanthropos tropos' (human-loving character) for giving fire and hope to mortals.
Word relationships
- charity: 'Charity' often addresses immediate distress, whereas 'philanthropy' aims at long-term systemic progress.
- misanthropy: A hatred or distrust of humankind.
Commonly confused with
- misanthropy: Philanthropy is love of humanity; misanthropy is dislike or hatred of humanity.
Word family
- philanthropist (noun): A person who practices philanthropy.
- philanthropic (adjective): Charitable and motivated by concern for human welfare.
Collocations
- corporate philanthropy
- higher education philanthropy
- act of philanthropy
Example sentences
- "Modern university growth relies heavily on private philanthropy to fund breakthrough medical research." Editorial
Memory hook
PHIL (love) + ANTHRO (man) = Love for mankind shown through giving. Love of humanity through generous gifts.
When not to use
Do not confuse with simple, small-scale personal acts of kindness.
Fun facts
- The term was popularized in English during the 17th century by Francis Bacon.
Related words
Explore more words
philanthropic, philanthropist, benevolent, charitable, compassion, altruism
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