Meaning & Definition of word "Sympathy"
to
Sympathy
/ˈsɪmpəθi/
noun:
- 1. The feeling of pity and sorrow for someone else's misfortune.
- Example: She expressed her sympathy to the family who had lost their home in the fire.
- 2. Understanding between people; common feeling.
- Example: There was a strong sympathy between the two friends, making them inseparable.
- 3. Support or approval for an idea or a plan.
- Example: The politician received a great deal of sympathy for her proposals on healthcare reform.
- 4. An affinity, association, or relationship between things or people.
- Example: He felt a deep sympathy for the struggles of the underprivileged.
Etymology
From Greek, 'sympatheia', meaning 'fellow feeling'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
express sympathy:
To convey feelings of sorrow or compassion to someone.
feel sympathy for:
To have feelings of pity or compassion for someone.
sympathy card:
A card sent to express condolences to someone who is grieving.
Related Words
empathy:
The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
compassion:
Sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.
condolence:
An expression of sympathy, especially on the occasion of a death.