Cool MateSympathetic
UK //ˌsɪmpəˈθɛtɪk//US //ˌsɪmpəˈθɛtɪk//
Definition
Feeling compassion or understanding for someone's feelings or situation.
In simple words: Showing that you care about someone's feelings.
Examples
- She was very sympathetic to his problems.
- His sympathetic nature made him a great friend.
- I felt sympathetic towards her after hearing her story.
- The teacher was sympathetic to the student's struggles.
- It's important to be sympathetic when someone is upset.
- They appreciated her sympathetic feedback during the difficult time.
Usage notes
Use 'sympathetic' when expressing understanding or compassion towards someone's situation. It is neutral but can be more formal in certain contexts.
Grammar pattern
sympathetic + to noun / sympathetic + towards noun
Memory hint
Think of 'sympathize' - when you feel bad for someone, you're sympathetic.
Collocations
- sympathetic smile
- sympathetic response
- sympathetic tone
Synonyms
- compassionate
- caring
- understanding
- supportive
- considerate
Antonyms
- unsympathetic
- indifferent
- unfeeling
Common mistakes
- Confusing sympathetic with empathetic, which has a slightly different meaning.
- Using sympathetic as a noun incorrectly.
- Saying 'sympathetic for' instead of 'sympathetic to/towards'.