Definition of Gentle
Quick Meaning of Gentle
Soft, kind, and peaceful; not harsh or aggressive.
Detailed Definition of Gentle
Mild, tender, and soft; not rough, violent, or severe.
How to Pronounce Gentle
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: The "g" sounds soft like "j". Stress the first syllable: GEN-tul.
Watch out: Pronouncing it as "jen-TAIL" or stressing the second syllable incorrectly.
Origin and Etymology of Gentle
From Old French gentil, from Latin gentilis (noble, well-born).
How to Use Gentle in a Sentence
Each example shows “gentle” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The nurse had a gentle touch when caring for the patient.”
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“A gentle breeze rustled through the trees.”
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“She spoke in a gentle voice to calm the frightened child.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Gentle
Common Synonyms for Gentle
Smart Synonyms for Gentle — When to Use Each
- mild
- For soft effects or calm behavior without intensity
- tender
- For soft touching and emotional sensitivity
- meek
- When describing a shy or submissive personality
Antonyms of Gentle
Common Collocations with Gentle
These phrases pair with “gentle” in everyday English:
- gentle touch
- gentle breeze
- gentle voice
- gentle slope
- gentle reminder
Common Mistakes When Using Gentle
Even fluent speakers slip up with “gentle”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She speak gentle to the baby.
- ✓ Correct: She speaks gently to the baby.
- Why: Use the adverb "gently" to describe how someone speaks, plus subject-verb agreement.
- ✗ Wrong: The mother was very gentle with care to the newborn.
- ✓ Correct: The mother was very gentle with the newborn.
- Why: "Gentle with" is the correct collocation; "with care" is redundant.
Other Forms of Gentle
Frequently Asked Questions About Gentle
What is the meaning of "Gentle"?
Soft, kind, and peaceful; not harsh or aggressive.
How do you pronounce "Gentle"?
The IPA is /ˈdʒɛntəl/. The "g" sounds soft like "j". Stress the first syllable: GEN-tul.
What part of speech is "Gentle"?
"Gentle" is an adjective at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Gentle"?
Common synonyms include mild, soft, tender.
How do you use "Gentle" in a sentence?
For example: "The nurse had a gentle touch when caring for the patient."