call for empathy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "call for empathy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need for understanding and compassion in a particular situation or context. Example: "In times of crisis, it is essential to call for empathy and support from our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

His stunning 224-page "Apostolic Exhortation" is a treatise on the corrosive effects of capitalism and a call for empathy.

The Guardian - Opinion

In a period when those making their way into Europe are too easily being categorised solely by a number – the size of their migration – such a visceral reminder of the personal triumphs and tragedies each embodies is needed, and carries with it a call for empathy.

Independent

From Meryl Streep's call for empathy at the Golden Globes to Mahershala Ali's moving comments on persecution at the SAG Awards, artists are using awards shows this year as platforms for speaking out against the racist and exclusionary ideology of the Trump Administration.

The New Yorker

This philosophy accounts for garish partisan rallies, when unimaginable tragedy would normally call for empathy and connection.

Huffington Post

I'll heed President Obama's call for empathy and understand the pro-choice argument: You don't want back-alley abortions.

Huffington Post

In regards to the above drawing, the criticism is merely a call for empathy towards hundreds of women forced into sexual slavery, made pregnant from mass rape.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Kurdi, who lost his family while attempting to flee the war ravaging his Syrian homeland, calls for empathy and understanding for those caught in the current refugee crisis.

The Guardian

Even at the end, when we understand more about the narrator's trauma, her voice remains cold; it's the plot, not the character, that calls for empathy.

The Guardian - Books

By way of counter-balance, the formidable children's advocate Camila Batmanghelidjh calls for empathy and understanding towards those who took part in the riots from deprived, chaotic backgrounds.

The Guardian - Opinion

Around Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, Rivlin made a video in which he sat next to an eleven-year-old Palestinian Israeli boy from Jaffa who had been bullied: the two held up cards to the camera calling for empathy, decency, and harmony.

The New Yorker

Regardless of our legal outcomes, our hope is that our family's personal tragedy will serve as a call for compassion, empathy and human dignity".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about complex social issues, use "call for empathy" to encourage readers to consider diverse perspectives and experiences. This can foster a more inclusive and understanding tone in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "call for empathy" excessively in emotionally charged contexts where direct expressions of sympathy or support might be more appropriate. Overuse can dilute the impact and make your message seem insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "call for empathy" functions primarily as a directive or appeal. It is used to implore individuals or groups to exhibit understanding and compassion towards others, particularly in situations involving hardship or conflict, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "call for empathy" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that serves as a directive or appeal for understanding and compassion. According to Ludwig AI, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts and carries a neutral to professional register. While the phrase is relatively uncommon, its consistent use in reputable sources underscores its validity. To ensure effective communication, it is advisable to use the phrase thoughtfully, avoiding overuse in emotionally charged contexts where more direct expressions of sympathy might be warranted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

urge compassion

Focuses on the act of urging, implying a strong need for compassion.

request understanding

Emphasizes the need for comprehension and acceptance of others' perspectives.

appeal for compassion

Highlights the emotional plea for compassionate action or consideration.

promote understanding

Suggests a proactive effort to foster empathy and mutual respect.

encourage compassion

Focuses on inspiring and supporting compassionate behavior.

foster empathy

Implies cultivating and nurturing empathic feelings and actions.

seek understanding

Highlights the active pursuit of comprehending others' experiences.

cultivate compassion

Suggests a deliberate effort to develop and strengthen feelings of compassion.

inspire empathy

Focuses on motivating others to feel and express empathy.

demand empathy

Implies a forceful request or expectation for empathic understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "call for empathy" in a sentence?

You can use "call for empathy" to express the need for understanding and compassion in a particular situation. For example: "The organization issued a call for empathy towards refugees affected by the crisis."

What's a good alternative to "call for empathy"?

Alternatives include "urge compassion", "request understanding", or "appeal for compassion", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "call for empathy" in formal writing?

Yes, "call for empathy" is suitable for formal writing, especially when addressing social issues, ethical considerations, or the importance of understanding different perspectives. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall tone and purpose.

What's the difference between "call for empathy" and "show empathy"?

"Call for empathy" is an appeal or request for others to demonstrate understanding and compassion, while "show empathy" is the act of personally demonstrating these qualities. One is a request, the other is an action.