What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sympathy
Example
I have sympathy for your loss. [sympathy: noun]
Example
She expressed sympathy for the family's financial struggles. [sympathy: noun]
compassion
Example
The nurse showed compassion towards the patient's pain. [compassion: noun]
Example
He acted with compassion by donating money to the homeless shelter. [compassion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sympathy is more commonly used than compassion in everyday language. Sympathy is a more general term that can be used in various contexts, while compassion is a stronger emotion that is often used in more serious situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sympathy and compassion?
Both sympathy and compassion can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, compassion is often associated with a more formal tone as it involves taking action to help someone.
