soliciting compassion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "soliciting compassion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when asking for or requesting empathy or understanding from others, often in a context of vulnerability or need. Example: "In her speech, she was openly soliciting compassion from the audience for those affected by the disaster."

✓ Grammatically correct

Unknown

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are soliciting tips.

The New York Times

Police are soliciting tips.

The New York Times

They said no soliciting.

The New York Times - Sports

They're soliciting ideas.

Forbes

Just soliciting reactions is fantastic.

Huffington Post

MR: I'm soliciting it!

Huffington Post

Soliciting a child for prostitution.

WikiHow

"I solicited two hundred people.

The New Yorker

Some judges solicit bribes.

The Economist

Has it been solicited?

The New York Times - Magazine

Dr. Cohen solicited his help.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "soliciting compassion" when you want to explicitly convey the act of asking for or seeking empathy, especially in situations where vulnerability or hardship is involved. Be mindful of the context to ensure it doesn't come across as manipulative or insincere.

Common error

Don't use "soliciting compassion" in situations where a more neutral request for understanding or support would be appropriate. The phrase carries a strong emotional weight and can sound out of place if the context doesn't warrant it.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "soliciting compassion" is that of a verbal phrase acting as a gerund or participle. It describes the act of seeking or requesting compassion, functioning either as a noun (gerund) or as a modifier (participle). According to Ludwig, the phrase is usable in English and often implies a request for empathy.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "soliciting compassion" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of seeking empathy or understanding. According to Ludwig, it's a valid expression in English, but with limited examples available, its frequency is currently low. The phrase tends to carry a neutral to formal tone and is best used in contexts where a genuine need for empathy is present. Alternatives such as "seeking empathy" or "requesting understanding" can be considered for nuanced expression. While correct, it's essential to use the phrase judiciously to avoid appearing manipulative or insincere.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Eliciting compassion

Highlights the action of drawing out compassion from others.

Seeking empathy

Focuses on the emotional resonance sought, replacing "compassion" with a synonym.

Requesting understanding

Emphasizes the cognitive aspect of comprehension over the emotional.

Inviting empathy

Suggests creating an atmosphere where empathy can arise organically.

Appealing for sympathy

Highlights the plea for emotional support, which may imply a sense of pity.

Beseeching kindness

Emphasizes a humble and earnest request for gentle treatment.

Asking for leniency

Implies seeking a more forgiving or tolerant approach.

Pleading for mercy

Conveys a desperate need for compassionate handling in a dire situation.

Courting favor

Suggests an attempt to gain approval or goodwill, subtly different from pure compassion.

Garnering support

Focuses on gathering general backing, which might include, but isn't limited to, compassion.

FAQs

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

You can use "soliciting compassion" when you want to express that someone is actively seeking empathy or understanding from others, especially in difficult or emotional situations. For example: "In her speech, she was openly soliciting compassion from the audience for those affected by the disaster."

What is a good alternative to "soliciting compassion"?

Alternatives to "soliciting compassion" include "seeking empathy", "requesting understanding", or "appealing for sympathy", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "soliciting compassion" formal or informal?

"Soliciting compassion" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it tends to be more common in situations where there is a genuine need for empathy and understanding. However, be careful not to overuse it, as it can sometimes sound manipulative if not used appropriately.

What is the difference between "soliciting compassion" and "demanding sympathy"?

"Soliciting compassion" implies a request for empathy and understanding, while "demanding sympathy" suggests a forceful insistence on receiving it. The former is generally seen as more appropriate and genuine, while the latter can come across as entitled or insensitive.