generosity
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generosity
The quality of gladly giving a lot without expecting anything in return. This can refer to money, time, or also leniency.
Wir waren von der Großzügigkeit der Spender überwältigt.
We were overwhelmed by the generosity of the donors.
'Großzügigkeit' (generosity) is the noun corresponding to the adjective 'großzügig' (generous). This in turn is made up of 'groß' (big) and 'Zug' (in the sense of character trait). So it describes the quality of having a 'big character trait' of giving.
Er ist für seine großzügige Art bekannt.
He is known for his generous nature.
Since 'Großzügigkeit' (generosity) is a quality, it is often combined with verbs such as 'zeigen' (to show), 'beweisen' (to prove/demonstrate), or 'besitzen' (to possess). You can also 'jemandem für seine Großzügigkeit danken' (thank someone for their generosity).
Mit ihrer Spende hat sie große Großzügigkeit bewiesen.
With her donation, she demonstrated great generosity.
To express toward whom someone is generous, the preposition 'gegenüber' with the dative is often used. The structure is: 'Großzügigkeit gegenüber jemandem' (generosity toward someone).
Seine Großzügigkeit gegenüber den Mitarbeitern war bemerkenswert.
His generosity toward the employees was remarkable.
leniency
'die Nachsicht' and 'die Großzügigkeit' can both mean that someone is not strict. 'Nachsicht' refers especially to mistakes, weaknesses, or wrong behavior: you do not punish harshly and show understanding. 'Großzügigkeit' is broader. It can mean that someone gladly gives money, time, or help, but it can also mean a lenient attitude. The words can be confused because 'Großzügigkeit' sometimes includes 'Nachsicht' too. When it is about a mistake, 'Nachsicht' is more precise; when it is about giving or a generally open attitude, 'Großzügigkeit' fits better.
Wir waren von der Großzügigkeit unserer Nachbarn überrascht, als sie uns beim Umzug halfen.
We were surprised by the generosity of our neighbors when they helped us move.
Die Lehrerin zeigte Nachsicht, weil Max seine Hausaufgaben zum ersten Mal vergessen hatte.
The teacher showed leniency because Max had forgotten his homework for the first time.