surge of compassion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "surge of compassion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden and intense feeling of empathy or kindness towards others, often in response to a specific event or situation. Example: "After hearing the news about the disaster, there was a surge of compassion among the community, leading to numerous donations and volunteer efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Perhaps in time we will realize that the full meaning of what happened on 9/11 resides in the surge of compassion and hope that accompanied the shock and mourning of that September day.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Her ill will toward her father was such that only when she was in her late twenties and he attempted suicide was she able to experience a surge of "love and compassion for him".

The New Yorker

The constant references to his inability to stand pressure – "surge of panic... wave of nausea" – might at least have inspired a degree of compassion in some readers.

The Guardian - Books

Since publication of Kristin Neff's goundbreaking book, Self-Compassion, there has been a surge of interest in the science and practice of self-compassion, particularly in clinical settings.

University of California, Berkeley

But what of compassion?

The New York Times

My sense of compassion.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Dark side of compassion?

University of California, Berkeley

"The LORD is full of compassion.

The New Yorker

Poems of compassion and verbal intricacy.

The New Yorker

The conservative commentator Glenn Beck insisted the issue is not one of "compassion, compassion, compassion," but of paying the $75.

The New York Times

Someone Is Hurt, in Need of Compassion.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "surge of compassion" to describe a powerful, sudden feeling of empathy, especially in response to suffering or a tragic event.

Common error

Avoid using "surge of compassion" to describe minor instances of kindness. The phrase implies a significant emotional response, so reserve it for situations that genuinely evoke strong empathy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "surge of compassion" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and usable in written English, describing a sudden and intense feeling of empathy or kindness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

22%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "surge of compassion" describes a sudden and intense feeling of empathy or kindness. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable in English. While relatively rare, the phrase effectively conveys a powerful emotional response, particularly in the context of news and media reporting. Alternatives like "wave of empathy" or "outburst of kindness" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. When using this phrase, it's best to reserve it for situations that genuinely evoke significant empathy to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sudden compassion

A shorter and more direct alternative, emphasizing the suddenness of the feeling.

wave of empathy

Focuses on the emotional understanding aspect, implying a shared feeling.

rising compassion

Suggests a gradual increase in compassionate feelings.

outburst of kindness

Emphasizes the active expression of compassion, suggesting a sudden display of goodwill.

flood of sympathy

Highlights the feeling of sorrow and concern for someone's suffering.

rush of tenderness

Conveys a gentle and affectionate form of compassion.

groundswell of support

Indicates a widespread and growing feeling of compassion leading to action.

influx of mercy

Highlights forgiveness and clemency as aspects of compassion.

welling of humaneness

Emphasizes the inherent quality of compassion as a part of human nature.

burst of generosity

Concentrates on the charitable and giving aspect of compassion.

FAQs

How can I use "surge of compassion" in a sentence?

You can use "surge of compassion" to describe a sudden and intense feeling of empathy. For example, "The news of the earthquake brought a "surge of compassion" from people all over the world."

What's a good alternative to "surge of compassion"?

Alternatives include "wave of empathy", "outburst of kindness", or "flood of sympathy", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "surge of compassion" in formal writing?

Yes, "surge of compassion" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing significant emotional responses to events. However, ensure that the context warrants such a strong expression.

What distinguishes "surge of compassion" from simple "compassion"?

"Surge of compassion" implies a sudden, powerful onset of compassionate feelings, whereas "compassion" describes a general state of empathy and concern for others.