What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pathetical
Example
The movie was so pathetical that I couldn't help but cry. [pathetical: adjective]
Example
Her pathetical behavior made me feel sorry for her. [pathetical: noun]
pathetic
Example
The team's performance was pathetic, and they lost the game. [pathetic: adjective]
Example
He made a pathetic attempt to fix the broken vase. [pathetic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pathetic is more commonly used than pathetical in everyday language. Pathetic is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pathetical is less common and may be considered outdated or archaic in some contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pathetical and pathetic?
Both pathetical and pathetic are generally considered informal words. However, pathetic may be used in more formal contexts to express strong disapproval or contempt.
