empathize

verb

Definition of empathizenext
as in to sympathize
to have the same feelings as another person; to feel empathy for someone
—often + with He learned to empathize with the poor.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of empathize The abilities to listen, empathize and show emotional intelligence remain distinctly human capabilities that AI cannot fully replicate. — Serenity Gibbons, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 Designing an experience that would allow audiences to genuinely empathize with the characters after watching the film was absolutely essential to the project. — Kevin Giraud, Variety, 19 June 2026 Knowing how patients start using substances to numb the pain of experiences like these helped participants empathize with patients who use substances. — Karli Swenson, The Conversation, 11 June 2026 Regardless, there’s a clear symbolism to Clark empathizing and embracing a bloated externalization of his own inchoate fury until someone with an outside perspective disturbs his peace, and that fury breaks loose and devours him. — Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 29 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for empathize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for empathize
sympathize
Verb
  • Smith Galer has much to say against the case for putting languages out of their misery, but her focus is on a point with which even the most unsentimental can surely sympathize.
    — Nikhil Krishnan, New Yorker, 20 July 2026
  • And though some may not sympathize with the lawyers, those that are court appointed are paid significantly less than those paid by private clients, and they are not paid until a case concludes, usually after many months.
    — Jacob M. Noble, Sun Sentinel, 16 July 2026
Definition of sympathize

Browse Nearby Words

empathic
empathize
empathized
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Cite this Entry

“Empathize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/empathize. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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