compassion

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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun compassion contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of compassion are commiseration, condolence, pity, and sympathy. While all these words mean "the act or capacity for sharing the painful feelings of another," compassion implies pity coupled with an urgent desire to aid or to spare.

treats the homeless with great compassion

When might commiseration be a better fit than compassion?

While in some cases nearly identical to compassion, commiseration suggests pity expressed outwardly in exclamations, tears, or words of comfort.

murmurs of commiseration filled the loser's headquarters

Where would condolence be a reasonable alternative to compassion?

While the synonyms condolence and compassion are close in meaning, condolence applies chiefly to formal expression of grief to one who has suffered loss.

expressed their condolences to the widow

In what contexts can pity take the place of compassion?

In some situations, the words pity and compassion are roughly equivalent. However, pity implies tender or sometimes slightly contemptuous sorrow for one in misery or distress.

felt pity for the captives

When is sympathy a more appropriate choice than compassion?

The words sympathy and compassion can be used in similar contexts, but sympathy often suggests a tender concern but can also imply a power to enter into another's emotional experience of any sort.

went to my best friend for sympathy
in sympathy with her desire to locate her natural parents

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 compassion My compassion is also for the Jewish people and for the Israelis as well. Joe Walsh, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2025 Her approach combines clinical expertise with genuine compassion, emphasizing that healing happens when people feel truly seen and understood. Lauren Carpenter, USA Today, 14 Apr. 2025 That’s not always easy, but Venus has also been guiding us to listen to our inner voice with more compassion and reverence. Danijela Pilic, Glamour, 11 Apr. 2025 As Hoque reminds us, transcending the AI temptation means intentionally guiding innovation with purpose, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to human dignity. Dan Pontefract, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for compassion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compassion
Noun
  • Shares of Advanced Micro Devices and Micron Technology fell 7% and 1%, respectively, in sympathy.
    Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 16 Apr. 2025
  • And some had sympathy for what seemed like his intuitive habit, urging the creator and others in the comments to avoid judgement based on his past.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • His unwavering faith, kindness, and dedication to serving others have left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
    Emily Mae Czachor, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Sure, the product is important, but kindness—the opposite of rudeness and apathy—is what keeps them coming back.
    Shep Hyken, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • That shows the family is teaching empathy, mutual respect, and emotional intelligence—precisely the opposite of what the uncle accused them of lacking.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Apr. 2025
  • But empathy without curiosity can lead to misalignment.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • He’s done so much for the organization, given his heart and soul to it and building a culture that’s respected.
    Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Molly's close friendship with Nikki, portrayed by Jenny Slate, is at the emotional heart of the series.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Compassion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compassion. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on compassion

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