“Beneficent” is more related to good actions, while “benevolent” is more related to good character. beneficent (adj.) = doing or producing good; especially related to charity Ex: “They are a beneficent family who regularly volunteer at a homeless shelter.” benevolent (adj.) = wishing others well; wanting good for others and to do good Ex: “Despite his ugly appearance, the giant was benevolent and friendly.”

These words have Latin origin. If you look them up in a dictionary of etymology, you will understand them. In brief, the first means "doing good" and the second means "wanting good".

"Bene" just means "good". Beneficent has more to do with generosity: actually giving people money or help, etc. Benevolent just means "well-wishing". The beneficent charity gives a substantial amount of monetary aid to disenfranchised minorities. The benevolent wizard has been known to cast well-meaning spells that backfired in comical ways.