pathetic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But Maria said the government's efforts to pull Russia out of its demographic rut were "pathetic".

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

Maybe the most pathetic men are the most dangerous ones.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham called the fine a "pathetic attempt to intimidate workers".

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

Puny and pathetic as Colin appears, he begins to seem like the braver of the two.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 5, 2026

It must have been designed by a committee because it’s a fairly pathetic barrier.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman