Sympathy: meaning, definitions and examples

When you feel sorry for someone else's misfortune or suffering without deeply sharing their emotional experience.

• I offered my sympathy to her after she lost her job.
• She expressed her sympathy for the victims of the disaster.

When you not only feel sorry for someone's suffering but also have a strong desire to help alleviate it.

• He showed great compassion by volunteering at the homeless shelter.
• Her compassion for animals led her to become a veterinarian.

When you deeply understand and share the feelings of another person because you have experienced similar emotions yourself.

• She felt great empathy for her friend who was going through a divorce.
• His empathy made him a good counselor, as he could truly relate to his clients' experiences.

When you comprehend the feelings, situations, or motives of others, often leading to acceptance or support, without necessarily sharing the same emotions.

• She listened with understanding and offered advice.
• Their friendship was built on mutual understanding and respect.

Expressed when showing understanding, compassion, or shared feelings with someone, especially in difficult times.

• She sent a card to express her sympathy after his loss.
• I felt great sympathy for the family affected by the tragedy.

Describes a close and harmonious relationship where people understand each other well, often used in professional or interpersonal contexts.

• The therapist built a good rapport with her patients.
• He established a strong rapport with his clients through trust and mutual respect.

Refers to a strong connection or relationship between people, often built over time, signifying trust and mutual support.

• The bond between the mother and her child was unbreakable.
• They developed a strong bond through their years of working together.

Indicates a link or relationship between people, places, or things, which can be either formal or informal. Applies broadly to both emotional and professional relationships.

• There is a clear connection between the two events.
• I felt an instant connection with her when we first met.

Sympathy is used to express compassion or sorrow for someone else's misfortune or suffering.

• She expressed her sympathy for the loss of his dog.
• He sent a card to show his sympathy for her illness.

Connection is used to describe a relationship where people feel a bond or understanding with each other.

• They felt an instant connection when they first met.
• The book explores the connection between nature and emotions.

Harmony is used to describe a state of peace and mutual agreement, often related to music or relationships.

• The choir performed in perfect harmony.
• They lived together in harmony despite their differences.

Correspondence refers to written communication between people, such as letters or emails.

• They kept their friendship alive through regular correspondence.
• The author published her correspondence with the editor.

Use when expressing sorrow or pity for someone's misfortune.

• I'm so sorry for your loss
• You have my deepest sympathy

Use when you can understand and share the feelings of another because you have experienced something similar.

• As someone who has faced similar challenges, I have a lot of empathy for what you're going through

Use when you have the ability to comprehend something, especially someone’s feelings or situation.

• She listened with patience and understanding, making sure to offer her support

Use when you feel deep concern for someone's suffering and wish to alleviate it.

• Her compassion for the homeless is evident through her volunteer work at the shelter