compassion

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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun compassion contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of compassion are commiseration, condolence, pity, and sympathy. While all these words mean "the act or capacity for sharing the painful feelings of another," compassion implies pity coupled with an urgent desire to aid or to spare.

treats the homeless with great compassion

When might commiseration be a better fit than compassion?

While in some cases nearly identical to compassion, commiseration suggests pity expressed outwardly in exclamations, tears, or words of comfort.

murmurs of commiseration filled the loser's headquarters

Where would condolence be a reasonable alternative to compassion?

While the synonyms condolence and compassion are close in meaning, condolence applies chiefly to formal expression of grief to one who has suffered loss.

expressed their condolences to the widow

In what contexts can pity take the place of compassion?

In some situations, the words pity and compassion are roughly equivalent. However, pity implies tender or sometimes slightly contemptuous sorrow for one in misery or distress.

felt pity for the captives

When is sympathy a more appropriate choice than compassion?

The words sympathy and compassion can be used in similar contexts, but sympathy often suggests a tender concern but can also imply a power to enter into another's emotional experience of any sort.

went to my best friend for sympathy
in sympathy with her desire to locate her natural parents

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of compassion Visitors to the Manhattan church expressed hope that the new pontiff would follow in the footsteps of Pope Francis, who died last month after a tenure that focused on humility and compassion. Sheetal Banchariya, New York Daily News, 8 May 2025 But the key to raising kids who grow up to be mentally strong, resilient adults is to treat them with compassion, rather than chastising them for over-reacting, according to child psychologist Becky Kennedy. Tom Huddleston Jr., CNBC, 7 May 2025 In which case, the fractured stuff in our lives can remind us to take care, to practice compassion, to remain open-minded. Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 6 May 2025 They were being remembered Tuesday for their humor and compassion. Whitney Wild, Jason Hanna and Taylor Romine, CNN Money, 29 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for compassion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compassion
Noun
  • Viewers flooded the comments with words of encouragement and concern, expressing sympathy for his state of mind and urging him to take care of his mental health.
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 8 May 2025
  • Other footwear stocks rose in sympathy following the announcement.
    Alex Harring, CNBC, 5 May 2025
Noun
  • Researchers explored how prosocial behavior, acts of genuine kindness and concern for others influences perceptions of physical attractiveness.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025
  • But Mike throws the man’s kindness back in his face by knocking him out and lifting his watch and wallet.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 17 May 2025
Noun
  • However, her decision-making process also includes instinct and empathy.
    Nicole Casperson, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025
  • The loss of community and empathy for others drowned in the waves of fear, uncertainty, and for many, anger.
    Lorraine Berry, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2025
Noun
  • But most importantly, Cuban wore his heart on his jacket sleeves for fellow entrepreneurs coming onto the show.
    Bryan Alexander, USA Today, 18 May 2025
  • When the call came that a donor heart was available, Robinson was hit with a wave of emotion.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, People.com, 17 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Compassion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compassion. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on compassion

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