have compassion for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have compassion for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing empathy or understanding towards someone else's feelings or situation. Example: "It is important to have compassion for those who are struggling during difficult times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I have compassion for them.

The New York Times

I have compassion for that.

The New Yorker

I have compassion for animals.

The New York Times

They're not saying they don't have compassion for that woman.

The New York Times

Do you have compassion for Osama bin Laden?

The New York Times - Magazine

But let's have compassion for those children who are helped by drugs like Ritalin.

The New York Times

"I have compassion for them, but I also have a business that is on their doorstep".

The New York Times

Key to this approach is to have compassion for yourself as well.

The Guardian

_ I'm quite sure she intends us to have compassion for Gavin Highly.

The New Yorker

Sure, they're vicious flesh eaters, but can't people still have compassion for the dead?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In Caravaggio's painting we are not alone, if we have compassion for one another; Misericordia.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "have compassion for", ensure the context clearly indicates genuine empathy and understanding, rather than condescension or pity. Show concrete ways to express this compassion.

Common error

Avoid phrasing that suggests you are superior to the person you "have compassion for". Focus on shared humanity and understanding, rather than highlighting their perceived weakness or misfortune.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have compassion for" functions as a verb phrase expressing a feeling of empathy, understanding, and concern for someone's suffering or misfortune. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "have compassion for" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to convey empathy and understanding towards others. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase's correctness and usability. Primarily found in news and media, it emphasizes a desire to alleviate suffering and connect emotionally with individuals or groups facing hardship. While "feel sorry for" might suggest pity, "have compassion for" highlights a deeper emotional connection. Remember to express genuine empathy, avoiding any suggestion of superiority, and focus on shared humanity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show empathy towards

Focuses on demonstrating an understanding of another's feelings, moving from simple feeling towards outward action.

regard with empathy

Highlights the act of perceiving or thinking about someone with empathy. It's about the way you see them.

feel sympathy for

Highlights a shared feeling of sorrow or pity for someone's misfortune, whereas "have compassion for" implies wanting to alleviate their suffering.

be understanding of

Emphasizes comprehension and acceptance of someone's situation, lacking the emotional depth of compassion.

be considerate of

Highlights thoughtfulness and awareness of others' needs, lacking the emotional intensity of compassion.

offer kindness to

Shifts the focus to proactive generosity and goodwill, instead of emotional resonance.

extend grace to

Implies a forgiving and merciful approach, particularly when someone has made a mistake, while "have compassion for" is a broader emotional response.

demonstrate goodwill toward

Focuses on expressing positive intentions and friendliness, instead of deep emotional understanding.

take pity on

Suggests a sense of superiority and condescension, whereas compassion denotes equality and respect.

have mercy on

Implies power to punish or harm and a decision to withhold it. "Have compassion for" focuses on understanding and caring, rather than power dynamics.

FAQs

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

You can use "have compassion for" to express empathy or understanding towards someone or a group of people. For example, "I "have compassion for" those who are struggling with job loss".

What is the difference between "have compassion for" and "feel sorry for"?

"Have compassion for" implies a deeper understanding and empathy, wanting to help alleviate suffering. "Feel sorry for" can suggest pity or condescension. Compassion is more active and understanding.

Which is more appropriate: "have compassion for" or "have sympathy for"?

Both phrases are appropriate, but "have compassion for" often suggests a stronger emotional connection and a desire to help. "Have sympathy for" can be more detached. Choose ""have compassion for"" when you want to emphasize your empathy and understanding.

What are some alternative phrases to "have compassion for"?

Some alternatives include "show empathy towards", "be understanding of", or "offer kindness to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.