lacking in compassion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lacking in compassion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that does not show empathy or kindness towards others. Example: "His response to the suffering of others was surprisingly lacking in compassion, leaving many feeling hurt and abandoned."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"They are so lacking in compassion.

The Guardian

However, the language around homelessness in much of the debate is distinctly lacking in compassion.

The Guardian

The report described how Concentrix's handling of the contract was chaotic and lacking in compassion and common sense.

The Guardian

To compound matters, the hospital's management did little to rectify the situation, while staff were uncaring and lacking in compassion.

The Guardian

The president's refusal to acknowledge in any visible way the daily casualties of combat and occupation is as transparent in intent as it is lacking in compassion.

The New York Times

How insensitive, how absolutely lacking in compassion these people are in their dealings". Sheedy told Guardian Australia they wanted "honesty" from this public hearing and "no more platitudes".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Regard was lacking in students' compassion and willingness to go beyond professional expectations.

BMC Medical Education

The Phelps family consider these practises the true definition of Christian love, proving that what they lack in compassion they more than make up for in creative exegesis.

The Guardian

In a poem called "For Ian Sullivan Upon Joining the South-Side White Pride," Matthew writes, "What our neighborhood lacked in compassion / it made up for in baseball bats and chain link / fences.

The New Yorker

However, it is my perception that, logical or not, the government will have to carry water in the future for this; that is, in addition to resentment at the government's weakness and invisibility, the callous pragmatism of the mass burials seems to underscore a perception that the Haitian leadership is lacking in genuine compassion.

The New Yorker

Remember that on Saturday or Sunday when you are cleaning your cars and playing ball with your kids" — Posted by Richard More Comments | Read Thursday Posts Gotbaums Sue Phoenix Over Airport Death "Much of the commentary on this message board is, in my opinion, strikingly lacking in human compassion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using "lacking in compassion". In more formal contexts, alternatives like "bereft of empathy" or "devoid of compassion" may be more suitable.

Common error

Avoid using "lacking in compassion" excessively in emotionally driven narratives. Overusing it can make your writing seem melodramatic or biased. Instead, vary your language to describe the specific behaviors that demonstrate a lack of empathy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lacking in compassion" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to describe someone or something that does not display empathy or understanding. Ludwig AI shows it is commonly used to critique behaviors or systems.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

16%

Books

13%

Less common in

Academia

8%

HuffPost

6%

Opinion

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lacking in compassion" is a frequently used adjectival phrase to critique the absence of empathy or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While "lacking in compassion" is generally neutral, it is important to use it judiciously, providing specific examples to support your critique. Alternatives include "devoid of compassion" or "bereft of empathy" for more formal settings. Avoid overuse in emotionally charged writing to maintain credibility and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

devoid of compassion

Emphasizes a complete absence of compassion.

showing no compassion

A more explicit way of stating the absence of compassion.

bereft of empathy

Highlights the absence of understanding and sharing the feelings of others.

without empathy

Directly states the absence of the ability to understand another's feelings.

deficient in empathy

Highlights a measurable shortage of empathetic ability.

insensitive

Focuses on the lack of awareness or concern for others' feelings.

unsympathetic

Indicates a lack of support or understanding for others' troubles.

unfeeling

Stresses the absence of emotional response or sympathy.

callous

Implies a hardened and indifferent attitude toward others' suffering.

heartless

Indicates a cruel or pitiless nature.

FAQs

How can I use "lacking in compassion" in a sentence?

You can use "lacking in compassion" to describe individuals, actions, or systems that fail to show empathy or understanding. For example, "The company's response to the crisis was "lacking in compassion", further damaging its reputation."

What are some alternatives to "lacking in compassion"?

Alternatives include "devoid of compassion", "bereft of empathy", or "insensitive". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "lacking compassion" or "lacking in compassion"?

Both "lacking compassion" and "lacking in compassion" are grammatically correct and widely used. "Lacking in compassion" might sound slightly more formal, but the difference is minimal.

What's the difference between "lacking in compassion" and "callous"?

"Lacking in compassion" generally implies an absence of empathy, while "callous" suggests a deliberate indifference to the suffering of others. Callousness implies a more hardened or cruel attitude.