Which word best describes someone who shows restraint or generosity toward an opponent in victory or defeat?

Which word best describes someone who shows restraint or generosity toward an opponent in victory or defeat?

• A. Haughty
• B. Ignoble
• C. Ascetic
• D. Magnanimous

Answer: (D)

Showing restraint or generosity toward an opponent in victory or defeat is described by magnanimous. Magnanimous means having a generous, forgiving spirit, especially toward someone who has opposed you or been your rival. It captures the gracious stance of not rubbing a win in someone’s face and not sulking after a loss. Haughty conveys arrogance and looking down on others, which is the opposite of gracious restraint. Ignoble refers to dishonorable or morally low behavior, not the positive, generous attitude in competition. Ascetic denotes self-denial and austere living, unrelated to how one treats an opponent. So the term that best fits the described behavior is magnanimous.

Showing restraint or generosity toward an opponent in victory or defeat is described by magnanimous. Magnanimous means having a generous, forgiving spirit, especially toward someone who has opposed you or been your rival. It captures the gracious stance of not rubbing a win in someone’s face and not sulking after a loss. Haughty conveys arrogance and looking down on others, which is the opposite of gracious restraint. Ignoble refers to dishonorable or morally low behavior, not the positive, generous attitude in competition. Ascetic denotes self-denial and austere living, unrelated to how one treats an opponent. So the term that best fits the described behavior is magnanimous.