Freigebig

Freigebig is a German adjective meaning generous or liberal in giving; it describes a person or behavior characterized by a readiness to give to others without expecting anything in return.

The term is formed from frei (free) and geben (to give). It emphasizes giving freely and openly, often implying a benevolent or magnanimous attitude. The related noun Freigebigkeit denotes the quality of liberality or generosity.

Usage and register: Freigebig is used both attributively and predicatively, for example: "eine freigebige Person" or "Er ist freigebig." In modern everyday language it is somewhat less common than großzügig, and may appear more in literary, formal, or historical contexts. Freigebig highlights the willingness to give, whereas großzügig is a broader term for being generous or plentiful in giving.

Examples: "Er ist freigebig und spendet regelmäßig an wohltätige Organisationen." "Die freigebige Spende des Mäzens half dem Projekt." The term can also appear in phrases like "freigebige Haltung gegenüber Bedürftigen" to describe an attitude of generosity.

See also: Freigebigkeit, Großzügigkeit, Geiz. Freigebig is closely related to these concepts but carries a nuance of voluntary, uncalculated giving.