Definitions

sympathize

[sim-puh-thahyz] / ˈsɪm pəˌθaɪz /

VERB

feel for, be compassionate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

commiserate comprehend

STRONG

ache agree appreciate comfort compassionate condole love pity understand

WEAK

be in accord be in sympathy be kind to be there for be understanding bleed for emphathize feel heart go out to go along with grieve with have compassion identify with offer consolation pick up on relate to share another's sorrow show kindliness show mercy show tenderness side with tune in

Antonyms

STRONG

scorn

WEAK

disapprove disregard ignore

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.

Still, the movie seems to sympathize with many Americans’ misplaced faith in the remoteness of nuclear war.

From Slate • Mar. 13, 2026

"It's quite easy to make a version of that story where he's a sort of toxic incel male conspiracy theorist nut who you don't really sympathize with," he told AFP.

From Barron's • Mar. 1, 2026

But it’s hard not to sympathize with Sylvia too.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 13, 2026

Still, Allen can sympathize with what he calls the “weird conundrum” that Garrett is going through by having such a successful season on a team that’s floundering.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 11, 2025

I was torn between gratitude that they should sympathize and anger that they should know.

From "Jacob Have I Loved" by Katherine Paterson

Vocabulary lists containing sympathize

Nothing But the Truth

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The Martian Chronicles

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Charles and Emma

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