What is an antonym for 'detrimental'?

The word 'detrimental' refers to something that causes harm or damage. An antonym, therefore, would be a term that conveys the opposite meaning—something that does not cause harm or is actually beneficial.

The term 'benign' is used to describe something that is gentle, kindly, and not harmful in any way. In contexts such as medicine, it often refers to conditions that are not cancerous and pose no significant threat. Thus, 'benign' effectively conveys the opposite of 'detrimental,' making it the correct choice in this instance.

The other terms either suggest harm or risk, which aligns them more closely with 'detrimental' rather than contrasting with it. For example, 'harmful' means causing injury or damage; 'perilous' indicates something full of danger; and 'adverse' suggests a negative or unfavorable effect. These meanings do not fit the requirement for an antonym to 'detrimental.'