compassion
/kəmˈpæʃ.ən/ IELTSAcademic
noun
Compassion is a feeling of caring when someone is suffering or in trouble. It often makes you want to help them.
- She showed compassion to the injured child.
- We need compassion for people in crisis.
- His voice had real compassion.
Adinary Nuance
Compassion is stronger and warmer than sympathy. Sympathy means you understand or feel sorry for someone, but compassion adds a wish to help. It is also softer and more personal than pity, which can sound distant or superior.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- lòng trắc ẩn
- Spanish
- compasión
- Chinese
- 同情
- Japanese
- 思いやり
- Korean
- 연민
Etymology
Compassion comes from Latin through Old French. It is linked to words meaning “suffer with,” which reflects its core idea.
Common phrases
show compassionhave compassion fora lack of compassioncompassion for others
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is compassion the same as sympathy?
- Not exactly. Sympathy is feeling sorry for someone; compassion also includes a desire to help.
- Is compassion a formal word?
- Yes, it is common in formal writing, speeches, and serious conversations.
- Can I use compassion in IELTS writing?
- Yes. It is useful in essays about society, healthcare, poverty, and human values.
- What is the opposite of compassion?
- Common opposites are cruelty, indifference, and coldness.