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humbleness vs. humility

humbleness vs. humility: What's the difference?

Humbleness and humility both refer to the quality of being modest. While humbleness can also mean the state of being or feeling low in rank, as in The humbleness of his upbringing accustomed him to living simply, humility only refers to having a modest opinion of oneself.

humbleness

[ huhm-buhl-nis, uhm- ]
noun
  1. the quality or state of being modest and lacking in pride or arrogance:We need to teach a different kind of leadership, one where humbleness is more important than confidence.
  2. the quality or state of being or feeling low in rank, importance, status, worth, etc:We observed the humbleness of the local homes, but also the hard-working ethic of the people who lived in them.
  3. the quality or state of being courteously respectful:Respect and humbleness will get you far in dealing with people from other places and cultures.

humility

[ hyoo-mil-i-tee or, often, yoo- ]
noun
  1. the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance, rank, etc.