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
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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
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Recent Examples of sympathetic
Many comments to the restaurant-support campaign have been sympathetic and encouraging.
—
Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 26 Feb. 2026
Around 3 in 10 Americans are adherents of or sympathetic to Christian nationalism, the belief that America is or should be a Christian nation, according to data published in February by the Public Religion Research Institute.
—Brieanna J. Frank, USA Today, 26 Feb. 2026
The source added that Kate is sympathetic toward Beatrice and Eugenie as a fellow mother to young children.
—Jason Pham, StyleCaster, 24 Feb. 2026
Other judges have been more sympathetic to the NCAA’s concern that the unique character of college sports could be harmed if players stick around for years as perpetual graduate students.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 23 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for sympathetic
Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 26 Feb. 2026
Around 3 in 10 Americans are adherents of or sympathetic to Christian nationalism, the belief that America is or should be a Christian nation, according to data published in February by the Public Religion Research Institute.
—Brieanna J. Frank, USA Today, 26 Feb. 2026
The source added that Kate is sympathetic toward Beatrice and Eugenie as a fellow mother to young children.
—Jason Pham, StyleCaster, 24 Feb. 2026
Other judges have been more sympathetic to the NCAA’s concern that the unique character of college sports could be harmed if players stick around for years as perpetual graduate students.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 23 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for sympathetic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sympathetic
Adjective
-
Peter’s complicated, compassionate personality continues to drive the series.—
Oline H. Cogdill,
Sun Sentinel,
5 Mar. 2026
-
His sense of humor was unmatched, and his ability to connect with anyone was a testament to his compassionate soul.—
Michael Guise,
CBS News,
4 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
While the kind of protection offered by Herakles or the Hulk comes with the risk of uncontrollable rage and indiscriminate destruction, and Oedipus seems more of a supervillain than a benevolent guardian, there was a kind of Greek hero that was seen as a defender.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
27 Feb. 2026
-
The ceremonies are often visibly emotional, with Kim portrayed as a benevolent father figure.—
Will Ripley,
CNN Money,
26 Feb. 2026
Adjective
-
Annually, on Mogen and Kernodle’s birthdays — designated Maddie May Day and Xanapalooza — the foundation encourages people to be kind to others and spend time with loved ones, in remembrance.—
Kevin Fixler,
Idaho Statesman,
5 Mar. 2026
-
Pai will play Henry, the head groundskeeper of Hartford Park, who is kind, charming, and knowledgeable about plants.—
Denise Petski,
Deadline,
4 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
The rooms All eight rooms are distinct, but feature thoughtful luxuries throughout—Matouk linens, smart TVs, and minibars stocked with wellness shots and facial masks.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
2 Mar. 2026
-
Kayce is an amazing character, but Luke is really thoughtful and smart.—
Los Angeles Times,
Los Angeles Times,
2 Mar. 2026
Adjective
-
Another, Proposition 2, says Texans should support humane, dignified immigration policies and pathways to citizenship.—
From Staff Reports,
Dallas Morning News,
3 Mar. 2026
-
The next two hours, presented in more dramatic terms, are humane, but not in a way that quite reaches poignancy.—
Daniel Fienberg,
HollywoodReporter,
27 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Sympathetic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sympathetic. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.
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