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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun sympathy differ from other similar words?

The words affinity and attraction are common synonyms of sympathy. While all three words mean "the relationship existing between things or persons that are naturally or involuntarily drawn together," sympathy implies a reciprocal or natural relation between two things that are both susceptible to the same influence.

two minds in sympathy

When might affinity be a better fit than sympathy?

The meanings of affinity and sympathy largely overlap; however, affinity implies a susceptibility or predisposition on the part of the one drawn.

an affinity for mathematics

When is attraction a more appropriate choice than sympathy?

In some situations, the words attraction and sympathy are roughly equivalent. However, attraction implies the possession by one thing of a quality that pulls another to it.

felt an attraction to danger

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 sympathy First Lady Melania Trump also spoke, expressing her sympathy for the parents of the deceased children, the community and everyone who lost a loved one. Samara Gerstle, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 July 2025 There was sympathy from coaches, the dressing room and supporters. Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 8 July 2025 McMahon’s post alluded to comments from Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has shown some sympathy toward those who object to transgender girls competing in sports against cisgender girls, calling it an issue of fairness. Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2025 No doubt, Purvis is dealing with a lot, but Harris’ mother expressed no sympathy. Martha Ross, Mercury News, 9 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for sympathy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sympathy
Noun
  • Among those lessons is that working with young people — and earning their trust — requires patience and compassion.
    Killian Baarlaer, The Courier-Journal, 25 July 2025
  • Above all, excellence is an ethic—a commitment to integrity, mastery and compassion.
    David Faris, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 July 2025
Noun
  • Cole has known Hussein for about six years and has seen how Hussein's kindness, character and compassion has inspired countless people at the school.
    Lily Kepner, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
  • His 90 years are saturated with kindness, love and compassion… driven by a fearless, diamond-like wisdom that engages a deeply divided world.
    Nancy Tartaglione, Deadline, 30 July 2025
Noun
  • Displaying empathy and compassion beyond their age level.
    Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Aug. 2025
  • That pause can create space for clarity, empathy, and better decisions.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Warm, welcoming, and full of heart, Gracianna feels like visiting an old friend.
    Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025
  • While Luna spent much of the summer playing on the left wing, his heart is with the playmaking 10 role.
    Jeff Rueter, New York Times, 28 July 2025
Noun
  • According to reporting from the Clermont Sun, Fike tweeted ‘#thug the new n word’ in April 2015 and ‘Thug life = thug treatment = no pity from me’ in July 2019.
    James Wilkins, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 July 2025
  • It’s supposed to be a reflection of someone really spiraling down into their self-perpetuating pity thoughts.
    Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 11 June 2025

Cite this Entry

“Sympathy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sympathy. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on sympathy

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