objects of pity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "objects of pity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe individuals or groups who evoke feelings of sympathy or compassion from others. Example: "The documentary highlighted the plight of the homeless, portraying them as objects of pity rather than individuals with stories and dreams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

The poor were no longer passive objects of pity.

The Guardian - Arts

As objects of pity, the poor were one-dimensional.

The Guardian - Opinion

I'm tired of this idea that African women can only be objects of pity.

The Guardian

Some of her subjects did not like the politics of Ms. Helal's employer, while others were nervous about being seen as objects of pity.

The New York Times

For much of our history, gay men have been treated as lepers; at best, as objects of pity; and commonly as objects of disgust.

The Guardian - Opinion

White skin had its privileges in society, but not at the beach, where the fair and the freckled were objects of pity and disdain.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

She becomes merely an object of pity.

The New York Times - Books

Watching yourself become irrelevant, an object of pity or puzzlement if acknowledged at all.

The New York Times

The celebrity, like the priest, was the true object of pity.

The Guardian - Opinion

To my younger friends Princess Margaret is an object of pity or indifference, if not derision.

The Guardian

His weak leadership has made him an object of pity, and he has only himself to blame.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "objects of pity", consider the potential implications of objectifying individuals. Strive to balance empathy with respect for their agency and dignity. Highlight their resilience rather than solely focusing on their misfortune.

Common error

Be mindful of the language you use when describing vulnerable populations. Instead of portraying them solely as "objects of pity", emphasize their strengths, experiences, and contributions to society. This avoids reducing them to one-dimensional figures.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "objects of pity" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies individuals or groups that are perceived to be in a state or situation that evokes feelings of compassion or sorrow. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing how certain groups, such as the poor or disabled, are often portrayed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "objects of pity" is a noun phrase used to describe individuals or groups who evoke feelings of compassion or sorrow due to their circumstances. While grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts, it's crucial to be mindful of the potential for objectification. As highlighted by Ludwig, portraying vulnerable populations solely as "objects of pity" can perpetuate stereotypes and diminish their agency. Instead, strive to balance empathy with respect, emphasizing their strengths and experiences. Alternatives like "subjects of compassion" or "people in distress" may offer a more nuanced perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subjects of compassion

Shifts the focus from pity to a more active feeling of compassion, suggesting a more positive and engaged response.

targets of sympathy

Emphasizes the feeling of sympathy directed towards those in a difficult situation.

figures of sorrow

Highlights the sadness and grief associated with the individuals or groups.

deserving of compassion

Focuses on the justification for feeling compassion, emphasizing the worthiness of the recipient.

in a pitiable state

Describes the condition of being worthy of pity, emphasizing their current circumstances.

poor souls

An idiomatic expression conveying sympathy and sadness for someone's misfortune.

unfortunate individuals

A more neutral and factual way of describing people in a difficult situation.

victims of circumstance

Highlights the role of external factors in creating their pitiable situation.

those to be pitied

Directly identifies individuals as recipients of pity, without necessarily evoking negative connotations.

people in distress

Focuses on their suffering and need for help or comfort.

FAQs

How can I use "objects of pity" in a sentence?

You can use "objects of pity" to describe individuals or groups who evoke feelings of compassion or sympathy due to their circumstances. For example: "The media often portrays refugees as "objects of pity", focusing on their suffering rather than their resilience."

What are some alternatives to "objects of pity"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "subjects of compassion", "targets of sympathy", or "people in distress" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to describe someone as an "object of pity"?

While grammatically correct, describing someone as an "object of pity" can be perceived as dehumanizing. It is generally better to focus on their individual stories and strengths, rather than reducing them to their circumstances.

What's the difference between "objects of pity" and "worthy of sympathy"?

"Objects of pity" implies that someone is being viewed primarily through the lens of their misfortune, whereas "worthy of sympathy" suggests a more empathetic and understanding perspective, acknowledging their struggles while still respecting their dignity.