1
as in compassionate
having or showing the capacity for sharing the feelings of another
a sympathetic smile needed a sympathetic listener who would understand her marital woes
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in benevolent
having or marked by sympathy and consideration for others
a sympathetic store manager who let us use the telephone sympathetic letters from supporters after the disappointing verdict
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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 sympathetic
Considerably more sympathetic to her plight is Melanie Saunders (Graynor), a high-minded acting teacher whose intensive Act One studio Hannah chances upon while researching her favorite young actress, Gracie Thomas (Tavi Gevinson), online.
—
Guy Lodge,
Variety,
13 June 2026
There’s the possibility of a state judge being sympathetic to another Big 12 school, just as a state judge was sympathetic to Sorsby and Texas Tech.
—
Michael McCann,
Sportico.com,
13 June 2026
Dana Sue found a sympathetic ear in her former high school nemesis Clark, Magnolias’ new business partner, setting a potential love triangle.
—
Nellie Andreeva,
Deadline,
11 June 2026
When the reunion actually began airing in May, fans theorized that the audio had been leaked to prevent Batula from getting a seemingly sympathetic edit.
—
Sarah Hearon,
Entertainment Weekly,
10 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for sympathetic
Guy Lodge,
Variety,
13 June 2026
There’s the possibility of a state judge being sympathetic to another Big 12 school, just as a state judge was sympathetic to Sorsby and Texas Tech.
—
Michael McCann,
Sportico.com,
13 June 2026
Dana Sue found a sympathetic ear in her former high school nemesis Clark, Magnolias’ new business partner, setting a potential love triangle.
—
Nellie Andreeva,
Deadline,
11 June 2026
When the reunion actually began airing in May, fans theorized that the audio had been leaked to prevent Batula from getting a seemingly sympathetic edit.
—
Sarah Hearon,
Entertainment Weekly,
10 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for sympathetic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sympathetic
Adjective
-
At their best, Cancers are compassionate, loyal, intuitive and deeply devoted.
-
And the Supreme Court's ruling says that this means those people'spunishments are not extraordinary or compelling, as the compassionate release program mandates.
Adjective
-
Hostile and benevolent sexism are early indicators of deeper problems.
-
Amazed to discover her treasure-trove apartment, Julián also discovers his own Caribbean heritage and the lively Brooklyn community he is surrounded by, in a loveable, benevolent family-friendly feature.
Adjective
-
Set firm, kind limits to keep progress steady.
-
Most of his reviews so far are kind to the business, but the pizza at Colony Grill in Fairfield took a bit of a review whooping.
Adjective
-
Create an agenda that names who does what, and map the route so your thoughtful plan serves the group together.
-
Over the years, Lucas and his wife have transformed the space from a simple above-ground pool into a backyard destination complete with thoughtful upgrades and finishing touches.
Adjective
-
Carmel Valley takes a more humane approach.
-
The safest and most humane response is usually patience.
Cite this Entry
“Sympathetic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sympathetic. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
