What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
empathize
Example
I can empathize with how you're feeling right now. [empathize: verb]
Example
She has a natural ability to empathize with others and understand their struggles. [empathize: verb]
relate
Example
I can relate to your experience because I went through something similar. [relate: verb]
Example
She was able to relate to her friend's struggles with anxiety because she had experienced it herself. [relate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Relate is more commonly used than empathize in everyday language. Relate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while empathize is less common and often used in therapeutic or counseling settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between empathize and relate?
Both empathize and relate can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but empathize may be perceived as more formal due to its association with therapy and counseling.
