B2adjectiveemotionsrelationships
US/ˌsɪm.pəˈθet.ɪk/
UK/ˌsɪm.pəˈθet.ɪk/
showing that you understand and care about someone's problems
In context
My boss was very sympathetic when I explained why I was late.
She gave him a sympathetic smile and handed him a tissue.
Many voters are sympathetic to the idea of a shorter working week.
Words that go with sympathetic
adjective + noun
- sympathetic earA good friend always offers a sympathetic ear.
- sympathetic characterThe film has no sympathetic characters.
- sympathetic responseThe charity received a sympathetic response from donors.
adjective + preposition
- sympathetic toThe court was sympathetic to her request.
- sympathetic towardsTeachers were sympathetic towards the new students.
adverb + adjective
- deeply sympatheticThe nurse was deeply sympathetic.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He is sympathetic with me.Correct: He is sympathetic to me.