Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Sympathetically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

❤️
Add to dictionary

sympathetically

[ˌsɪm.pəˈθet.ɪ.kəl.i ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

showing compassion or understanding

In a sympathetic manner; showing empathy or understanding towards someone's feelings or situation.

Synonyms

compassionately, empathetically, understandingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sympathetically

Use this word when you want to show concern or sorrow for someone's suffering or misfortune. It often has an emotional, supportive tone.

  • She nodded sympathetically as he shared his grief.
  • They listened sympathetically to her story about losing her job.
compassionately

This word is best when you want to show kindness and a desire to help others who are suffering. It suggests a deeper level of care and action to alleviate pain.

  • The nurse spoke compassionately to the frightened child.
  • He acted compassionately by donating to the homeless shelter.
understandingly

This word is appropriate when you want to convey acknowledgment and comprehension of someone's situation or feelings without necessarily sharing them. It implies patience and tolerance.

  • He nodded understandingly, respecting her decision.
  • She smiled understandingly when he explained why he was late.
empathetically

Choose this word when you want to express understanding and share the feelings of others. Empathy involves experiencing someone else's emotions from their perspective.

  • She reacted empathetically, really feeling his disappointment.
  • The therapist listened empathetically, understanding her client's struggles.

Examples of usage

  • She listened sympathetically as he poured out his heart.
  • The teacher smiled sympathetically at the student struggling with the assignment.
Context #2 | Adverb

supporting or approving of someone or something

In a supportive or approving manner; showing agreement or favor towards someone or something.

Synonyms

approvingly, favorably, supportively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sympathetically

This word is best used when expressing understanding or compassion towards someone's situation, usually when they are facing difficulties or hardships.

  • She nodded sympathetically as he described his problems.
  • The doctor listened sympathetically to the patient’s concerns.
supportively

This word is suitable when expressing encouragement or backing for someone, often in their efforts or endeavors. It indicates providing help and reassurance.

  • He nodded supportively as she talked about her new project.
  • The team worked supportively to achieve their common goal.
approvingly

Use this when expressing approval or agreement with someone's actions or decisions, often in a way that shows endorsement or acceptance.

  • He smiled approvingly at her suggestion.
  • The teacher looked at the student’s work approvingly.
favorably

This word is often used when describing a positive opinion or preferential treatment towards someone or something. It can refer to overall perception or evaluation.

  • The committee viewed the proposal favorably.
  • She spoke favorably about the new policy.

Examples of usage

  • The manager nodded sympathetically at the employee's request for time off.
  • The audience clapped sympathetically at the end of the performance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that sympathetic responses can strengthen social bonds and improve emotional resilience.
  • Feeling sympathy can lead to prosocial behaviors, encouraging acts of kindness and support.
  • Empathy and sympathy, though related, differ; empathy involves shared emotions, while sympathy is caring from a distance.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, showing sympathy is crucial in maintaining relationships, especially in times of loss.
  • Different societies have unique ways of expressing sympathy, from verbal condolences to communal mourning rituals.
  • Cultural norms dictate the appropriateness of sympathy; in some cultures, overt displays of emotion are encouraged, while in others, they're discouraged.

Literature

  • Sympathetic characters often drive dramatic plots, as readers connect more with challenges faced by relatable figures.
  • In classic literature, the portrayal of grief and joy evokes reader sympathy, enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative.
  • Famous authors, like Charles Dickens, used sympathetic elements to highlight social injustices and human suffering.

Pop Culture

  • Empathetic characters are often found in movies, where the audience is invited to feel along with them, enhancing the emotional experience.
  • Television shows that tackle serious issues, like mental health or loss, rely on sympathetic storytelling to engage viewers.
  • Songs that express sympathy or understanding of pain are often more impactful and resonate deeply with listeners.

Origin of 'sympathetically'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'sympatheia,' meaning 'compassion' or 'fellow feeling.'
  • It entered the English language in the 17th century, evolving from meanings related to shared feelings.
  • The prefix 'sym-' indicates together or with, while 'pathos' refers to feelings or suffering.

The word 'sympathetically' originates from the Middle French word 'sympathique', which comes from the Late Latin 'sympatheticus' meaning 'having fellow feeling'. It has been used in English since the 17th century to express understanding, compassion, and support towards others.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,952, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.