show compassion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show compassion" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to suggest that someone speaks or behaves in a sympathetic and understanding way towards others. For example, "By showing compassion to those in need, we can make a real difference in the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Show Compassion.

Cornell University

He could also show compassion.

The New York Times

Compassion, to show compassion".

The New Yorker

Beg him to show compassion.

The New York Times

Show compassion to your stressed-out colleagues.

Harvard Business Review

Show compassion and surround yourself with positivity.

Harvard Business Review

Aren't conservatives allowed to show compassion?

The Guardian - Film

2. Show compassion to those fleeing violence.

The Guardian

Discover why low-income people are quicker to show compassion.

University of California, Berkeley

Seek out opportunities to show compassion and express gratitude.

Harvard Business Review

I don't think it's right to show compassion to a mass murderer like that.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "show compassion", ensure the context clearly indicates the recipient of the compassion. Avoid ambiguity by specifying who is receiving the compassionate act.

Common error

Avoid limiting compassion to only those who are similar to you. True compassion extends to all, regardless of background or circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show compassion" typically functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action. According to Ludwig AI, it suggests speaking or behaving in a sympathetic and understanding way. It denotes the act of expressing empathy and kindness towards others, as demonstrated in numerous Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

21%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

19%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "show compassion" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that encourages empathetic and supportive behavior. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in speaking and behaving with sympathy and understanding. Its versatility allows it to be appropriate in neutral, formal, and informal contexts, with a prevalence in News & Media and Academic sources. To use the phrase effectively, specify who is showing compassion and to whom. Consider alternatives like "demonstrate empathy" or "offer kindness" for variety. Avoid limiting compassion to specific groups to embody its true meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demonstrate empathy

This alternative shifts the focus from action to an inherent quality, emphasizing emotional understanding.

practice empathy

Similar to "demonstrate empathy", this emphasizes the active application of understanding others' feelings.

offer kindness

This alternative replaces "compassion" with a more general term for benevolence, suitable in various contexts.

treat with kindness

This alternative emphasizes the behavior and manner in which someone is approached, focusing on gentleness and care.

extend sympathy

This alternative highlights shared feelings and understanding of someone's distress.

express sympathy

Like "extend sympathy", this denotes conveying shared feelings, but with a verbal component.

display understanding

This focuses on the cognitive aspect of compassion, highlighting comprehension of another's situation.

provide comfort

This emphasizes the act of soothing or alleviating someone's distress, a practical application of compassion.

offer solace

Similar to "provide comfort", this focuses on providing emotional support and relief in times of grief or distress.

have mercy

This suggests a forgiving or lenient approach, especially in situations where punishment or strictness might be expected.

FAQs

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

To use "show compassion" effectively, ensure you clearly identify the subject showing compassion and the object receiving it. For example, "The doctor "showed compassion" to her patients."

What are some alternatives to "show compassion"?

Some alternatives to "show compassion" include "demonstrate empathy", "offer kindness", or "extend sympathy", depending on the specific context.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use the phrase "show compassion"?

It is most appropriate to use "show compassion" in situations where someone is suffering or in need of support, whether emotionally, physically, or mentally. The phrase suggests an active response to alleviate their distress.

What is the difference between "show compassion" and "feel compassion"?

"Feel compassion" refers to an internal emotional state of understanding and empathy towards someone's suffering. "Show compassion" refers to the outward actions and behaviors that demonstrate that empathy and aim to alleviate the suffering.