C1noun2K

Compassion

UK /["/kəmˈpæʃn/"]/US /["/kəmˈpæʃn/"]/

Definition

a strong feeling of sympathy for people or animals who are suffering and a desire to help them

In simple words: Caring about others and wanting to help them.

Examples

to **feel/show compassion**
She was known as a hard woman with no compassion, no emotion.
In an overworked doctor, feelings of compassion are soon lost.
He was filled with overwhelming love and compassion for his wife.
I felt no compassion towards her.
I survived. Someone or something had had compassion on me.
In cities where many people beg, citizens quickly develop compassion fatigue.
We were treated with great compassion.

Usage notes

Used in various contexts, such as healthcare and personal interactions. Appropriate in both formal and informal situations. Avoid in cold, business-like environments.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'compassion' as 'comp-assion' – when you share an 'ass' to help others feel better.

Collocations

deep
great
genuine
be filled with
feel
have
fatigue
compassion for
compassion towards/toward
with compassion
love and compassion

Synonyms

empathy
kindness
concern
tenderness
benevolence

Antonyms

indifference
cruelty
apathy

Common mistakes

Confused with 'sympathy' — compassion involves a desire to help, while sympathy is just feeling bad for someone.
Using it in a context where coldness is expected, like business communications.
Spelling errors, such as 'compation' or 'compassionate' when missing the noun form.