Thesaurus

pitiable

Q: How is the word 'pitiable' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of pitiable are contemptible , despicable , scurvy , and sorry . While all these words mean "arousing or deserving scorn," pitiable applies to what inspires mixed contempt and pity. // a pitiable attempt at tragedy

Q: When might 'contemptible' be a better fit than 'pitiable'?

The synonyms contemptible and pitiable are sometimes interchangeable, but contemptible may imply any quality provoking scorn or a low standing in any scale of values. // a contemptible liar

Q: In what contexts can 'despicable' take the place of 'pitiable'?

The words despicable and pitiable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, despicable may imply utter worthlessness and usually suggests arousing an attitude of moral indignation. // a despicable crime

Q: How are the words 'scurvy' and 'despicable' related as synonyms of 'pitiable'?

Scurvy adds to despicable an implication of arousing disgust. // a scurvy crew of hangers-on

Q: When is 'sorry' a more appropriate choice than 'pitiable'?

The meanings of sorry and pitiable largely overlap; however, sorry may stress pitiable inadequacy or may suggest wretchedness or sordidness. // this rattletrap is a sorry excuse for a car

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Synonyms & Antonyms of pitiable

1 arousing or deserving of one's loathing and disgust

the sales presentation was a pitiable display of ineptitude and disorganization

Synonyms for pitiable

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2 deserving pitying scorn (as for inadequacy)

a pitiable attempt at singing that generated snickers

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excellent

Antonyms for pitiable

3 deserving of one's pity

a pitiable, starving old dog

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Frequently Asked Questions About pitiable

How is the word pitiable different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of pitiable are contemptible, despicable, scurvy, and sorry. While all these words mean "arousing or deserving scorn," pitiable applies to what inspires mixed contempt and pity.

a pitiable attempt at tragedy

When might contemptible be a better fit than pitiable?

The synonyms contemptible and pitiable are sometimes interchangeable, but contemptible may imply any quality provoking scorn or a low standing in any scale of values.

a contemptible liar

In what contexts can despicable take the place of pitiable?

The words despicable and pitiable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, despicable may imply utter worthlessness and usually suggests arousing an attitude of moral indignation.

a despicable crime