are very sympathetic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are very sympathetic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone’s understanding or compassion towards another person's situation or feelings. Example: "The counselors at the school are very sympathetic to the students' struggles during exam season."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Doctors are very sympathetic people.

The Guardian

We are very sympathetic to waiters and busboys.

The Washington Post

"Humans are very sympathetic to small, cute animals.

The Guardian

Others are very sympathetic, offering her sweets and saying 'poor girl'.

The Guardian

"People who paint the river are very sympathetic to it," she said.

The New York Times

On my campus, the political activists on the left are very sympathetic to labor.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

I'm very sympathetic.

The New York Times

Everyone was very sympathetic.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I am very sympathetic.

The New York Times

"He was very sympathetic," Baldev said.

The New York Times

"I'm very sympathetic to that.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "are very sympathetic", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific individuals or groups showing sympathy, and the recipients of that sympathy. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "are very sympathetic" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced language to convey the specific type of understanding or support being offered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are very sympathetic" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a state of compassion, understanding, or empathy. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, it is used to characterize individuals, groups, or even abstract concepts as exhibiting sympathy.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

14%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are very sympathetic" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe someone as compassionate or understanding. According to Ludwig AI, its use is considered correct and suitable for various contexts. While it's generally appropriate for neutral settings like news and media, it's advisable to use more nuanced language in highly formal writing. Remember to specify who is sympathetic and to whom to avoid ambiguity. For alternative expressions, consider "demonstrate a great deal of empathy" or "show considerable compassion". By keeping these considerations in mind, you can effectively and accurately use "are very sympathetic" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demonstrate a great deal of empathy

Emphasizes the capacity to understand and share the feelings of another, highlighting emotional resonance.

show considerable compassion

Focuses on the active expression of kindness and concern for those who are suffering.

are highly understanding

Highlights the ability to comprehend and appreciate another's situation or feelings without judgment.

display deep concern

Indicates a profound level of worry and interest in someone's well-being.

are quite supportive

Emphasizes the act of providing encouragement and assistance.

offer a lot of comfort

Focuses on providing solace and relief from distress.

extend much kindness

Highlights the act of being generous and benevolent.

provide considerable reassurance

Focuses on diminishing doubts and fears through encouraging words and actions.

express profound sympathy

Highlights a deep feeling of sorrow and compassion for someone else's suffering.

are incredibly supportive

Emphasizes exceptional levels of encouragement and assistance.

FAQs

How can I use "are very sympathetic" in a sentence?

You can use "are very sympathetic" to describe people, groups or even abstract concepts that show compassion. For example: "Doctors "are very sympathetic" people."

What's a more formal alternative to "are very sympathetic"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "demonstrate considerable empathy", "exhibit profound compassion", or "are highly understanding".

How does "are very sympathetic" differ from "are empathetic"?

"Are very sympathetic" generally implies feeling or expressing pity or sorrow for someone else's misfortune. "Are empathetic", on the other hand, suggests a deeper understanding and sharing of another's feelings, not just feeling sorry for them.

Is it always appropriate to say someone is "very sympathetic"?

While generally positive, ensure the context warrants sympathy. If the situation calls for action or problem-solving rather than emotional support, framing someone as "very sympathetic" may not be the most effective or appropriate approach. If the situation requires action instead of sympathy, try "are very helpful".