ask for compassion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for compassion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting understanding, empathy, or kindness from someone in a difficult situation. Example: "In times of crisis, it is important to ask for compassion from those around you."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

I ask for compassion.

The New York Times

"I ask for compassion, respect and privacy as my children and I try to rebuild our lives and heal.

The New York Times

She "did not seem to ask for compassion", as Elizabeth notes at the end of her first visit to the marital bower.

The Guardian - Books

On Wednesday, the doctor's widow and his children came to court instead to draw attention to the abuse that they say the entire family suffered at his hands and to ask for compassion for the son.

The New York Times

Like the glance of Puss in Boots in the film Shrek, Momo makes little faces which ask for compassion, tenderness and strokes.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Shriver has issued a public statement asking for "compassion, respect, and privacy".

The New Yorker

At some points in his speech, he struck the tone of a beggar asking for compassion and acquittal.

The New York Times

I am not asking for compassion, only fairness and an opportunity to prove my total innocence.

Huffington Post

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis asked for compassion and solidarity in a Facebook post and the Minister for Healthcare, Nicolae Bănicioiu, encouraged people to donate blood for the wounded.

Vice

As a priest, he brought the prayers of his people to G-d, always asking for compassion and forgiveness for his people.

Huffington Post

"I always ask for some compassion," he adds, "but I don't get very far".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal contexts, consider using more nuanced alternatives like "request empathy" or "seek understanding" to maintain a professional tone.

Common error

Avoid using "ask for compassion" too frequently in casual conversations. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make you seem overly dramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for compassion" functions as a request or appeal for understanding and empathy. It is often used when someone is facing hardship or difficulty and needs emotional support. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ask for compassion" is a grammatically sound phrase used to request understanding and empathy, particularly in difficult situations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable in written English. Though not extremely common, the phrase appears mainly in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the reasons for needing compassion are clear. Be mindful of the setting, as more formal options like "request empathy" may be better suited for professional environments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request empathy

Directly asks for the ability to share and understand another's feelings.

seek understanding

Focuses on obtaining comprehension rather than emotional response.

need understanding

Highlights the necessity of being comprehended, particularly in complex situations.

appeal for leniency

Specifically seeks reduced punishment or severity in judgment.

plead for mercy

Implies a desperate request for kindness and forgiveness in a dire situation.

solicit kindness

Formally seeks gentle and considerate treatment.

hope for sympathy

Expresses a wish to receive feelings of pity and sorrow for one's misfortune.

desire consideration

Indicates a wish for thoughtful and respectful regard.

crave forbearance

Expresses a strong desire for patient and tolerant treatment.

look for grace

Seeks elegance or beauty of movement, particularly in complex situations.

FAQs

How can I use "ask for compassion" in a sentence?

You can use "ask for compassion" when you need understanding or empathy from others during a difficult time. For example, "After losing my job, I had to "ask for compassion" from my family and friends".

What is a more formal way to say "ask for compassion"?

In formal settings, you can use phrases like "request empathy" or "seek understanding" to maintain a professional tone.

When is it appropriate to "ask for compassion"?

It's appropriate to "ask for compassion" when you are facing a personal crisis, dealing with a significant loss, or navigating a situation where you need emotional support and understanding from others.

What is the difference between ""ask for compassion"" and "ask for sympathy"?

"Ask for compassion" implies seeking understanding and empathy, while "ask for sympathy" suggests seeking pity or sorrow for your situation. Compassion involves a deeper level of understanding and shared emotion.