call for pity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "call for pity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a situation or action that evokes sympathy or compassion from others. Example: "His heartfelt story seemed to call for pity from everyone in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"This is not a call for pity responses," he would add.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

And, of course, call the police, for pity's sake!

The New York Times

Beware of all winks to the audience, of the sly quest for complicity, of all calls, even discreet, for pity.

The New Yorker

Ill-being, or doing badly, may call for sympathy or pity, whereas we envy or rejoice in the good fortune of others, and feel gratitude for our own.

SEP

Her with her arthritis" — in protesting the war in Iraq, calling for "peace on earth, for pity's sake, for peace, for peace".

The New Yorker

Tipping his hand a little, he called once for compassion for the accused, twice for pity for the justices.

The New Yorker

Ay me for pity!

The New Yorker

6.50pm: For pity's sake.

The Guardian - Business

Read a book, for pity's sake.

The New York Times - Arts

Show us, for pity's sake.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Koumas was in no mood for pity.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When crafting a message, consider whether "call for pity" is the most appropriate term. While it highlights the intention to elicit sympathy, be cautious of potential negative connotations, such as manipulation or insincerity. Alternatives like "seek understanding" or "appeal for compassion" might be more suitable depending on the message's aim.

Common error

Avoid assuming that every expression of vulnerability is necessarily a deliberate "call for pity". Sometimes, people genuinely need support, and labeling their need as manipulative can be dismissive and harmful. Context and intent are crucial in making that distinction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "call for pity" functions primarily as a verbal expression used to describe an action intended to evoke feelings of sympathy or compassion. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from personal narratives to broader social commentary.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "call for pity" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, to describe an attempt to evoke sympathy or compassion. While versatile, it carries a risk of implying insincerity. Therefore, it's essential to consider the context carefully. Related phrases, such as "appeal for sympathy" or "seek commiseration", may be more appropriate depending on the message's aim. Use "call for pity" judiciously to accurately convey the intent behind certain actions, and be cautious about misinterpreting genuine need as manipulative. Be mindful of this expression's purpose and register for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appeal for sympathy

Focuses on the act of requesting sympathy, rather than directly calling for pity.

invoke compassion

Emphasizes the act of bringing about feelings of compassion.

seek commiseration

Highlights the desire for shared feelings of sorrow or hardship.

elicit sympathy

Focuses on drawing out feelings of sympathy from others.

ask for compassion

Directly requests compassionate understanding.

solicit empathy

Highlights the act of seeking empathetic understanding.

beg for mercy

Emphasizes a plea for leniency or forgiveness, often implying a dire situation.

plead for understanding

Focuses on seeking comprehension and acceptance of a situation or action.

cry for help

Indicates a desperate request for assistance, often in a challenging situation.

fish for compliments

Seeks praise or admiration in a subtle or indirect manner.

FAQs

What does it mean to "call for pity"?

To "call for pity" means to attempt to evoke feelings of sympathy, compassion, or sorrow from others. It suggests an intentional effort to gain attention or support through emotional appeal.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "call for pity"?

It's appropriate when describing a situation or action that seems designed to elicit sympathy. However, be mindful of the potential for negative connotations, as it can imply insincerity or manipulation.

What are some alternatives to "call for pity"?

Alternatives include "appeal for sympathy", "invoke compassion", or "seek commiseration", depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Consider the specific context to choose the most appropriate term.

How can I avoid sounding judgmental when describing someone's "call for pity"?

Focus on the observable actions or statements that suggest an attempt to elicit sympathy, rather than directly accusing someone of being manipulative. Use language that is descriptive and objective, rather than accusatory.