Empathetically: meaning, definitions and examples

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empathetically

[ɛmˈpæθətɪkli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in communication

Showing an ability to understand and share the feelings of another. It involves being sensitive, supportive, and compassionate towards others.

Synonyms

caringly, compassionately, sympathetically, understandingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
empathetically	Use when you want to describe putting yourself in someone else's shoes and truly feeling their emotions. She listened empathetically to her friend's problems, understanding the pain she was going through
compassionately	Use when you want to show deep sympathy and a desire to alleviate someone's suffering. The nurse spoke compassionately to the elderly patient, hoping to ease her worries and pain
sympathetically	Use when you wish to express pity or sorrow for someone's situation but not necessarily share in their feelings. He looked at her sympathetically when she explained how she had lost her job
understandingly	Use when you want to show that you grasp the situation or feelings of another person without judgment. She nodded understandingly as her colleague explained the reasons for his late submission
caringly	Use when describing actions done with love and concern for someone's well-being. He tucked his child into bed caringly, making sure she was comfortable before leaving the room

Examples of usage

She listened empathetically to her friend's problems.
He responded empathetically to her emotional story.
They communicated empathetically during the difficult conversation.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in behavior

Acting in a way that shows understanding and consideration for others' emotions and feelings. It involves being responsive and supportive in interactions.

Synonyms

compassionately, sensitively, sympathetically, understandingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
empathetically	Best used when you are taking the time to truly understand another person's feelings by putting yourself in their shoes. It involves a deep emotional connection. She listened empathetically as her friend shared their struggles. The counselor approached the situation empathetically to better understand the student's challenges.
compassionately	Ideal for situations where you are showing care and desire to help someone who is suffering or facing difficulties. Shows a combination of empathy and a willingness to act. He spoke compassionately to the homeless man, offering food and support. The nurse dealt with each patient compassionately, ensuring they felt cared for.
sympathetically	Used when expressing pity or sorrow for someone's misfortune, often involves offering comfort or support, but doesn't necessarily involve deep emotional understanding. He nodded sympathetically as she described her difficult day. The community responded sympathetically to the family’s tragic loss.
understandingly	Best used when showing comprehension and tolerance toward another person's actions or feelings, often without necessarily feeling the same emotions. She smiled understandingly at her son's frustration with his homework. His manager looked at him understandingly when he explained why the project was delayed.
sensitively	Appropriate when handling a situation or discussing a topic that requires delicacy to avoid offending or upsetting someone. Can also imply consideration for someone’s emotions. She raised the issue sensitively, aware that it was a sensitive topic for him. He handled the news of his colleague’s illness sensitively.

Examples of usage

She behaved empathetically towards her colleagues during the crisis.
The teacher responded empathetically to the students' concerns.
His actions were empathetically driven by his concern for others.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Empathy is crucial for forming human connections and is linked to stronger relationships.
There are two types of empathy: cognitive (understanding feelings) and emotional (feeling what someone else feels).
Studies show that practicing empathy can improve one's mental health and reduce stress.

Cultural Significance

Different cultures have unique ways of expressing empathy, such as through storytelling or communal support.
Empathetic communication can act as a bridge in conflict resolution, allowing parties to understand each other better.
In many societies, the ability to empathize is often linked to moral education and values.

Literature

Numerous literary works showcase empathy as a central theme, highlighting character development and moral lessons.
In novels, empathetic characters often drive the plot, as their connections with others lead to both conflict and resolution.
Many classic stories advocate for empathy, encouraging readers to walk in another's shoes.

Science

Neuroscience has identified 'mirror neurons' in the brain that activate when we see someone else experience emotions, which aids in empathy.
Research indicates that engaging in empathetic behavior can lead to physiological benefits, such as lower heart rates during stressful situations.
Empathy is believed to have evolutionary roots, as it enhances cooperation within social groups.

Social Impact

Empathy plays a vital role in fostering community engagement and activism, as understanding others' struggles motivates action.
Nations that prioritize empathetic education often experience more social harmony and less conflict.
Empathetic leadership in organizations has been shown to improve employee satisfaction and overall productivity.

Translations

Translations of the word "empathetically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 empaticamente

🇮🇳 सहानुभूतिपूर्वक

🇩🇪 einfühlsam

🇮🇩 dengan empati

🇺🇦 співчутливо

🇵🇱 empatycznie

🇯🇵 共感的に

🇫🇷 avec empathie

🇪🇸 empáticamente

🇹🇷 empatik olarak

🇰🇷 공감적으로

🇸🇦 بتعاطف

🇨🇿 empaticky

🇸🇰 empaticky

🇨🇳 同情地

🇸🇮 empatično

🇮🇸 með samúð

🇰🇿 эмпатиямен

🇬🇪 თანაგრძნობით

🇦🇿 empatiya ilə

🇲🇽 empáticamente