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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun sympathy differ from other similar words?

The words affinity and attraction are common synonyms of sympathy. While all three words mean "the relationship existing between things or persons that are naturally or involuntarily drawn together," sympathy implies a reciprocal or natural relation between two things that are both susceptible to the same influence.

two minds in sympathy

When might affinity be a better fit than sympathy?

The meanings of affinity and sympathy largely overlap; however, affinity implies a susceptibility or predisposition on the part of the one drawn.

an affinity for mathematics

When is attraction a more appropriate choice than sympathy?

In some situations, the words attraction and sympathy are roughly equivalent. However, attraction implies the possession by one thing of a quality that pulls another to it.

felt an attraction to danger

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 sympathy Prosecutors said Mascia shot himself in an apparent attempt to receive attention and sympathy. Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2025 At a news conference later Thursday, an emotional Pritzker choked up while again extending his sympathies. Kate Reilly, NBC news, 23 Oct. 2025 There is the more straightforward version of that question, which would provide viewers with a clear idea of where their sympathies should lie. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 23 Oct. 2025 Both politicians expressed their sympathy for the Epstein victims. Jack Royston, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sympathy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sympathy
Noun
  • Boundaries, compassion and emotional clarity are your lifelong teachers.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 27 Oct. 2025
  • Unlike a host of seedy managers looking to make a quick buck, Landau had real care and compassion for Springsteen.
    Jake Kring-Schreifels, Time, 24 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • His legacy continues to inspire others to lead with kindness, purpose, and authenticity.
    Luke Chinman, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025
  • Found in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Wilbur is described as quirky and in need of patience, stability, and someone willing to earn his trust with treats and kindness.
    Real-Time News team, Miami Herald, 27 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Beyond the shock factor, Crow hopes her video inspires others with old jetted tubs to check theirs, and encourages empathy for people maintaining older homes.
    Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025
  • The job posting notes the high school student has a very high IQ, but her extreme empathy and sensitivity has made traditional schooling difficult.
    Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 28 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The third-highest goal scorer in the club’s history had his heart set on chasing down more records and winning another Golden Boot.
    James Pearce, New York Times, 23 Oct. 2025
  • My heart doesn't feel okay with it.
    Liza Esquibias, PEOPLE, 23 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • At these intersections, pity and fear collide.
    Brian Hamilton, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Some earlier African intellectuals looked at Black America with pity, even disdain.
    Kelefa Sanneh, New Yorker, 6 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • At the end of the week, Mel struggled to navigate his feelings for each woman.
    Liza Esquibias, PEOPLE, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Instead, the director Scott Cooper’s film turns on Landau recognizing that the tracks reflect Springsteen confronting inner darkness—including his conflicted feelings about his father and his fear of his growing fame—and nudging the musician to realize his need for further help.
    David Sims, The Atlantic, 23 Oct. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Sympathy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sympathy. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on sympathy

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