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 But one thing several designers agreed on was the need for compassion. Chidozie Obasi, CNN Money, 25 June 2025 Our focus remains on our values, including fostering an environment that cultivates compassion, where every student has the opportunity to thrive. Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2025 Most people would, research indicates, prefer compassion and connection. Stav Ziv, CNBC, 24 June 2025 The lessons of compassion and resilience in the book will guide her path forward. Ashley Vega, People.com, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for compassion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compassion
Noun
  • Richard, his family, and his counsel express their deep and sincere sympathy for the family of Edwina Marter.
    Khaleda Rahman Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 June 2025
  • Fans, followers and fellow parents took to the comment section to share their sympathy — and confusion.
    Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 26 June 2025
Noun
  • Indeed, the designer’s intentions are based on high ideals — kindness, tolerance and humility among them — even if his methods can sometime shock.
    Miles Socha, Footwear News, 25 June 2025
  • Her courage, kindness, and determination touched the lives of everyone who knew her.
    Christina Coulter, People.com, 24 June 2025
Noun
  • An individual who lacks empathy may excel at making hard choices like laying off staff or shutting down unprofitable teams.
    Shawn Cole, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • Now at the risk of stating the obvious, that feels important; that scene contrasts with the scene with the doctor, the scene with HR, where there's zero empathy whatsoever.
    Andy Crump, Time, 26 June 2025
Noun
  • Roth went right for Rubin’s heart, invoking the Paul Skenes Topps MLB Debut Patch autographed one-of-one card that famously sold for $1.11 million to Dick’s Sporting Goods in March.
    Larry Holder, New York Times, 22 June 2025
  • Rather than solely leaning on designing for moneyed families and those with means to drop thousands on new pieces each season, the designer opts to create from his heart.
    Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 22 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Compassion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compassion. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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