invoke compassion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "invoke compassion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of calling upon or encouraging feelings of empathy and kindness in oneself or others. Example: "In her speech, she aimed to invoke compassion among the audience for those affected by the crisis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Casual observers might associate her music with abrasive avant-gardism, but she invokes compassion with her noise making.

The New York Times - Arts

I know you're here to seek diversion in the staging of my death and that it's futile to invoke pity, tenderness, or compassion.

The Guardian - Books

To invoke lasting compassion, we need to inspire compassion and that doesn't come through meekness.

The Guardian

Instead, invoke your compassion and always be kind in their presence.

WikiHow

The only thing that can prevent violence in the world is invoking love, compassion and mercy in people' souls, which are also in the essence of the three Abrahamic religions.

Huffington Post

One reason appears to be that driving offences seem far more likely than other serious crimes to invoke empathy and compassion from a jury.

The Guardian - Opinion

Today's meditation features a traditional Tibetan Buddhist mantra which is believed to invoke the blessing and compassion of the divine.

Huffington Post

Together, we will remember the humanity of those whom we have been calling enemies, invoke the power of compassion that the great traditions of the world teach us, and have a conversation about how we can have dialogue that is truthful while still remaining open to hearing another view.

Huffington Post

They invoke the spirits.

Los Angeles Times

Just invoke ageism!

Huffington Post

Compassion and mercy, invoked at the start of each tale, are rarely felt, let alone exercised.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "invoke compassion", consider your audience and tailor your message to resonate with their values and experiences to effectively encourage empathy and understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "invoke compassion" in a way that seems manipulative or insincere. Ensure your message is genuine and reflects a true desire for understanding and empathy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "invoke compassion" functions primarily as a verb phrase + noun, where "invoke" acts as a transitive verb, meaning to call forth or appeal to, and "compassion" serves as the direct object. According to Ludwig, this expression is used to prompt feelings of empathy.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "invoke compassion" is a grammatically correct and relatively rare expression used to describe the act of eliciting or calling upon feelings of empathy and understanding. According to Ludwig, the phrase is employed to encourage a compassionate response from an audience. It is most frequently found in news and media, wiki articles, and scientific contexts. To effectively use the phrase, ensure the context is genuine and aims to inspire empathy rather than manipulate emotions. Alternatives such as "elicit compassion", "inspire compassion", and "arouse compassion" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

elicit compassion

Focuses on drawing out compassion that already exists.

inspire compassion

Emphasizes the act of creating compassion.

arouse compassion

Highlights stirring up compassion.

foster compassion

Suggests nurturing and developing compassion.

generate compassion

Focuses on the creation of compassionate feelings.

call forth compassion

Similar to 'elicit', but with a stronger emphasis on summoning.

stir compassion

Highlights emotional impact or stirring of compassion.

awaken compassion

Focuses on bringing compassion to consciousness or action.

encourage compassion

Emphasizes the act of promoting compassionate feelings.

promote compassion

Focuses on widespread compassion and understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "invoke compassion" effectively in a sentence?

To use "invoke compassion" effectively, ensure the context clearly shows an attempt to elicit or encourage empathetic feelings. For instance, "The speaker aimed to invoke compassion among the listeners by sharing personal stories of struggle."

What are some alternatives to "invoke compassion"?

You can use alternatives like "elicit compassion", "inspire compassion", or "arouse compassion" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "invoke compassion" and "show compassion"?

"Invoke compassion" refers to eliciting or calling upon feelings of compassion, while "show compassion" refers to demonstrating compassionate behavior. One is about inspiring the feeling, the other is about acting on it.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "invoke compassion"?

It's appropriate to use "invoke compassion" when you want to encourage others to feel empathy and understanding, especially in situations involving suffering, injustice, or the need for support. Ensure your use is genuine and not manipulative.