Tell me more ×
English Language & Usage Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for linguists, etymologists, and serious English language enthusiasts. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 5 down vote favorite
1

At the risk of being DRY:

What's a powerful word for someone who "sees the best in others"?

share|improve this question

3 Answers

up vote 8 down vote accepted

I think it depends on the person and his/her perspective on the matter.

For instance, someone who recognizes that humans are flawed but believes in their fundamental goodness nonetheless could be described as forgiving, good-natured, tolerant or benevolent.

Someone who has faith in others to do the right thing (and potentially doesn't see or overlooks their character flaws) could be described as trusting or idealistic.

If we, knowing as we do that people are rather nasty creatures, describe such a person from our cynical vantage point, we might call him/her credulous, naive or unsuspecting.

share|improve this answer
up vote 2 down vote

I would say the person has a 'generous' view of the other.

share|improve this answer
up vote 1 down vote

You could call someone a Pollyanna. Although its meaning is a bit broader, it might be appropriate in context.

share|improve this answer
1  
"Pollyanna" is a common idiom, but by no means a widespread one. I hear it so rarely I always forget what it means. – Blazemonger Oct 3 '11 at 15:39
3  
Pollyanna actually means being blindly optimistic, to a fault. I think that should be made clear, because it's not necessarily a nice thing to call someone. – Daniel δ Oct 3 '11 at 18:10

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.