sympathize
word
Definition
To feel or express understanding and care for someone else's feelings, especially in difficult situations.
Usage & Nuances
More formal and empathetic than 'pity.' Common with 'with'—'sympathize with someone.' Does not mean to share opinions ('agree with'), but to share feelings. Avoid confusing with 'empathize,' which means to feel as if you're in that person's place.
Spanish: compadecerse - simpatizar (empatía)Portuguese (BR): simpatizar - compadecer-sePortuguese (PT): simpatizar - compadecer-seChinese (Simplified): 同情 - 理解Chinese (Traditional): 同情 - 理解Hindi: सहानुभूति रखना - हमदर्दी दिखानाArabic: يتعاطف - يواسيBengali: সহানুভূতি প্রকাশ করা - সহানুভূতি রাখাRussian: сочувствоватьJapanese: 共感する - 同情するVietnamese: đồng cảm - thông cảmKorean: 공감하다 - 동정하다Turkish: sempati duymakUrdu: ہمدردی کرناIndonesian: bersimpati
Example Sentences
I sympathize with your situation.
basic
Many people sympathize with the victims.
basic
She really sympathizes with animals in need.
basic
It's hard not to sympathize when you hear his story.
natural
I can totally sympathize with you—I’ve been there myself.
natural
They tried to sympathize with our problem, but didn't really help.
natural