grace
word
Definition
Grace is smooth, attractive movement or behavior, and it can also mean kindness or forgiveness freely given. In some contexts, especially religious ones, it refers to God's love and help, and in practical use it can also mean a short extra period of time allowed.
Usage & Nuances
Often used in formal or literary English for elegance: 'move with grace'. In religion, 'grace' is a key term and is not the same as simple 'kindness'. In everyday practical English, 'a grace period' means extra time before a payment or deadline is enforced. Don't confuse it with 'graceful', the adjective.
Example Sentences
The dancer moved with grace.
basic
They asked God for grace.
basic
The bank gave us a grace period of five days.
basic
She handled the criticism with surprising grace.
natural
By some grace, we made the last train home.
natural
I missed the payment, but luckily there's a ten-day grace period.
natural