show empathy

USAGE SUMMARY

"show empathy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to encourage someone to be compassionate and understanding towards someone else's feelings or experiences. For example, "I know it's difficult, but please try to show empathy towards your brother; he's going through a tough time right now."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Show empathy and concern.

Columbia University

2. Show empathy.

Harvard Business Review

Use this experience to show empathy.

The Guardian

I try to listen and show empathy.

The Washington Post

Show empathy when employees mess up.

Harvard Business Review

Show empathy before you finish making your request.

University of California, Berkeley

You have to show empathy rather than sympathy".

The Guardian

Show empathy - look at issues from the claimants' perspective.

The Guardian

They are intelligent, inquisitive, smile and show empathy.

The Guardian - Opinion

But frown in reaction to legitimate pain, and he will show empathy.

The New York Times - Science

We also had to show empathy to the Israelis, regardless of who might be right".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "show empathy" in situations where emotional connection and understanding are important, such as in conflict resolution, customer service, and interpersonal relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "show empathy" when you actually mean "show sympathy". Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another, while sympathy involves feeling sorry for someone. Focus on understanding their perspective rather than just feeling sorry for them.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show empathy" functions as a call to action, urging someone to express understanding and compassion towards others. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Science

12%

Wiki

8%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "show empathy" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to encourage understanding and compassion. Ludwig AI indicates that it is widely applicable across various contexts. The phrase is most frequently found in "News & Media", "Academia", and "Formal & Business" settings. To effectively "show empathy", focus on actively listening and acknowledging others' feelings, distinguishing it from simply feeling sorry for them (sympathy). Alternatives include "demonstrate compassion" or "offer understanding". Remember to consider specific examples of how to demonstrate empathy to enhance its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

display empathy

Similar in meaning, focusing on outward demonstration.

be understanding

Focuses on adopting an attitude of comprehension.

demonstrate compassion

Highlights the aspect of compassionate action.

exercise compassion

Emphasizes putting compassion into practice.

offer understanding

Emphasizes providing comprehension and acceptance.

express sympathy

Focuses on conveying feelings of care and concern.

extend support

Highlights the act of providing help and assistance.

put yourself in someone's shoes

Idiomatic expression for understanding another's perspective.

offer a shoulder to cry on

Idiomatic expression indicating emotional support.

lend an ear

Highlights active listening and attentiveness.

FAQs

How can I /s/demonstrate+empathy instead of just saying "show empathy"?

Instead of just saying "show empathy", you can "demonstrate empathy" through active listening, acknowledging the other person's feelings, and offering support without judgment.

Is it better to "show empathy" or "express sympathy"?

The choice between "show empathy" and "express sympathy" depends on the context. Empathy involves understanding and sharing feelings, while sympathy is feeling pity or sorrow for someone. Empathy is often more helpful in building connections.

What does it mean to "show empathy" in the workplace?

To "show empathy" in the workplace means to understand and acknowledge the feelings and perspectives of your colleagues. This can involve actively listening to their concerns, offering support, and being mindful of their emotional state.

How can I "develop empathy" so that I can "show empathy" more effectively?

You can "develop empathy" by practicing active listening, trying to understand different perspectives, and reflecting on your own emotions and experiences. Reading fiction and engaging in conversations with people from diverse backgrounds can also help.