Synonyms for

Sympathetic

Adjective / ˌsɪmpʌˈθetɪk / Another word for sympathetic — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

feeling or showing concern or compassion for others

Synonyms & similar words

kindly unsympathetic benevolent harmonic likeable openhearted likable appealing charitable compassionate caring kind understanding empathetic sensitive tender warm soothing supportive encouraging affectionate loving considerate thoughtful gentle soft-hearted pitying merciful forgiving

Synonyms by register

Formal

compassionate understanding benevolent solicitous

Informal

understanding supportive kind on your side

Literary

commiserating pitying kindred

Antonyms

unsympathetic indifferent callous apathetic uncaring dispassionate hostile

Common collocations

  • sympathetic ear
  • sympathetic response
  • sympathetic to
  • sympathetic understanding
  • sympathetic vibration
  • sympathetic nervous system
  • sympathetic look

Word family

noun sympathy
verb sympathize
adjective sympathetic
adverb sympathetically

Usage note

Often used to describe someone who shows concern or pity for another's misfortune. Can also refer to agreement or shared feelings.

Compare "sympathetic" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. The nurse was very sympathetic to the sick child.
  2. He was sympathetic to his friend's problems.
  3. She gave a sympathetic smile to show her support.
  4. The teacher was very sympathetic to the student who was struggling.
  5. The doctor was very sympathetic to the patient's pain.

Quotes

  • 'To be kind, compassionate, and sympathetic to our fellow human beings is not only a noble virtue, but the foundation of a civilized society.' - Dalai Lama
  • 'I'm very sympathetic to people who are struggling, but I think it breeds welfare.' - Rand Paul
  • 'I'm just sympathetic to the human condition.' - Robert Downey Jr.

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