The word ‘Sympathetic’ (Adjective) describes showing understanding, compassion, or sensitivity towards others. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use ‘Sympathetic’ correctly in sentences.
Sympathetic Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word Sympathetic, including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meanings of Sympathetic
Sympathetic means showing understanding, compassion, or concern for someone else’s feelings or experiences. It often conveys an ability to connect with others on an emotional level, offering comfort, kindness, and support during difficult times.
A sympathetic person listens and responds with care and empathy, making others feel valued and understood.
Definition
Sympathetic refers to showing compassion, understanding, and sensitivity towards the emotions and situations of others. It often describes someone who offers comfort, support, or encouragement when another person is facing challenges, pain, or difficulties.
This term highlights the quality of being able to share or identify with others’ feelings, creating an emotional connection that fosters trust and warmth.
Etymology
- The word sympathetic comes from the Greek word “sympatheia,” meaning “fellow feeling” or “affinity.”
- It is derived from “sym-” (together) and “pathos” (feeling, suffering), indicating shared feelings or compassion.
- Over time, it evolved into the English word “sympathetic,” retaining its meaning of sharing emotions and understanding others’ feelings.
Example Sentences
- She was a sympathetic friend who always listened when I needed to talk.
- The nurse gave me a sympathetic smile that made me feel a little better.
- He was sympathetic to the struggles of his team members and tried to help them whenever he could.
Sympathetic Synonyms
- Compassionate
- Understanding
- Empathetic
- Caring
- Considerate
- Kindhearted
- Supportive
- Warm
- Merciful
- Affectionate
Sympathetic Antonyms
- Indifferent
- Insensitive
- Callous
- Unsympathetic
- Uncaring
- Aloof
- Detached
- Cold
- Harsh
- Unkind
FAQs about Sympathetic
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Sympathetic”
1. What does “sympathetic” mean?
“Sympathetic” describes being understanding, compassionate, or sensitive to another person’s feelings, often offering emotional support and kindness.
2. Can “sympathetic” describe a person?
Yes, it often describes a person who is caring and considerate towards others’ emotions and experiences.
3. Is “sympathetic” always positive?
Generally, yes. It has a positive connotation, describing someone who is warm, caring, and considerate towards others’ feelings.
4. Can “sympathetic” also refer to physical responses?
Yes, in a medical context, “sympathetic” can refer to the sympathetic nervous system, which triggers responses like increased heart rate in times of stress or excitement.
5. Is “sympathetic” the same as “empathetic”?
They are similar but not exactly the same. “Sympathetic” means showing care and understanding, while “empathetic” means actually feeling what another person feels and putting yourself in their shoes.