What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
compassionate
Example
She is known for her compassionate nature, always willing to lend a helping hand. [compassionate: adjective]
Example
The doctor provided compassionate care to the patient, offering comfort and support. [compassionate: noun]
sympathetic
Example
He was sympathetic towards his friend's loss, offering a shoulder to lean on. [sympathetic: adjective]
Example
The teacher showed sympathetic understanding to the student's struggles, providing guidance and encouragement. [sympathetic: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sympathetic is more commonly used than compassionate in everyday language. Sympathetic is a versatile word that can be used to describe various situations and relationships, while compassionate is more specific and often used in professional or formal settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between compassionate and sympathetic?
While sympathetic can be used in both formal and informal contexts, compassionate is typically associated with a more formal tone. It is commonly used in professional settings, such as healthcare or counseling, to describe a person's character or behavior.
