Is pity the same as sympathy?

Not exactly. Sympathy is warmer and more shared, while pity can sound more distant.

Yes, sometimes. If you pity someone too much, it may sound patronizing.

Is pity a noun or a verb?

It is both. As a noun, it means a feeling of sadness; as a verb, it means to feel sorry for someone.

What is the difference between pity and compassion?

Compassion usually includes care and a wish to help. Pity may not.

← Dictionary

pity

/ˈpɪt.i/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A feeling of sadness for someone who is suffering or in a bad situation. It can also mean kind or gentle sympathy.

She looked at him with pity.
I felt pity for the injured dog.

verb

To feel sorry for someone because they are suffering or in an unhappy situation.

Don't pity me.
They pitied the child after the accident.

Adinary Nuance

Pity is close to sympathy and compassion, but it can sound more distant or less equal. Sympathy shares someone’s sorrow; compassion adds a wish to help. Pity often suggests you feel sorry for someone from a little distance, and it can sometimes sound insulting if overused.

In other languages

Vietnamese: lòng thương hại
Spanish: lástima
Chinese: 怜悯
Japanese: 哀れみ
Korean: 연민

Etymology

Pity comes from Old French pité, from Latin pietas, meaning duty, kindness, or respect. It has been used in English since the Middle Ages.

Common phrases

feel pity fora look of pityout of pity

Synonyms

sympathy compassion mercy

Related words

kindness sadness charity empathy

Frequently asked questions

Is pity the same as sympathy?: Not exactly. Sympathy is warmer and more shared, while pity can sound more distant.
Can pity sound rude?: Yes, sometimes. If you pity someone too much, it may sound patronizing.
Is pity a noun or a verb?: It is both. As a noun, it means a feeling of sadness; as a verb, it means to feel sorry for someone.
What is the difference between pity and compassion?: Compassion usually includes care and a wish to help. Pity may not.