a sympathetic match

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sympathetic match" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two parties or elements are well-suited or compatible with each other, often in a positive or understanding context. Example: "After reviewing their profiles, the committee concluded that they were a sympathetic match for the project, sharing similar values and goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

She is a sympathetic match for the 88-year-old Doris Lessing, who made the invisibility of aging women a major theme decades before talk-show guests started chatting about hot flashes.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Save for the fact that he pitied himself far more than you could hope to match, Carl Kruger almost presented a sympathetic portrait of a man consumed with remorse.

The New York Times

Alone with Perry in his cell, Capote is stunned: this beautiful sociopath is material — a gold mine, in fact — and also a sympathetic human being whose miserable childhood and need for recognition match Capote's own history and ravenous hungers.

The New Yorker

Spurs have a sympathetic mini-run of games in the league now, Saturday's match at home to Sunderland being followed by fixtures against Crystal Palace, Norwich and Watford.

The Guardian - Sport

Nowhere in the reports of this spat - a word, incidentally, that she says overstates what happened - was there a sympathetic mention of the fact that she had just lost her first-round match at Wimbledon.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. Blackmun provided a sympathetic ear without joining in the debates that engaged Judge Burger or matching his invective.

The New York Times

A Benckiser a sympathetic partner.

The New York Times

She had a sympathetic audience.

The Economist

A sympathetic Roxie Hart?

The New York Times

A gruff man struck a sympathetic tone.

The New York Times

IT HELPS to have a sympathetic plaintiff.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sympathetic match" when you want to highlight a connection or alignment that involves understanding, empathy, or shared values. It works well in contexts where compatibility extends beyond mere functionality.

Common error

Avoid using "a sympathetic match" when a purely functional or logistical fit is intended. The phrase carries an implication of emotional or value-based alignment, which might be inappropriate in purely technical contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sympathetic match" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "sympathetic" modifies the noun "match". According to Ludwig AI, it expresses a connection characterized by understanding and compatibility. It typically attributes a quality of shared feeling or alignment.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sympathetic match" describes a pairing or connection that goes beyond simple compatibility to include shared understanding, empathy, or values. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically sound and applicable in various contexts, although more commonly found in news and media. When using this phrase, consider whether the context truly warrants the implication of emotional or value-based alignment, as opposed to a purely functional fit. Consider alternatives like "a compatible pairing" or "a harmonious fit" when the sympathetic aspect is not central to the meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a compatible pairing

Emphasizes the suitability and harmony between two entities.

a fitting combination

Highlights how well elements complement each other.

a harmonious fit

Suggests a pleasing and balanced alignment.

an agreeable partnership

Focuses on cooperation and shared understanding.

a kindred spirit

Implies a deep connection and shared values.

a receptive audience

Highlights a group that is open and understanding.

an empathetic connection

Stresses the emotional understanding between individuals.

a well-suited arrangement

Emphasizes the appropriateness of the situation.

a compassionate alliance

Focuses on the shared empathy and support.

a resonant pairing

Suggests a strong and meaningful connection.

FAQs

How can "a sympathetic match" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a sympathetic match" to describe a situation where two entities or individuals are well-suited because they share values, understanding, or empathy. For example: "The therapist and patient were "a sympathetic match", leading to a successful therapeutic relationship."

What phrases are similar to "a sympathetic match"?

Similar phrases include "a compatible pairing", "a harmonious fit", or "a kindred spirit", all of which suggest a positive alignment or connection.

Is "sympathetic match" formal or informal?

The term "sympathetic match" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and the overall purpose of the communication.

When is it not appropriate to use "a sympathetic match"?

It is not appropriate to use "a sympathetic match" in contexts where a purely functional or logistical fit is intended, without any implication of shared understanding or empathy. In such cases, terms like "suitable combination" or "fitting arrangement" may be more accurate.