sympathetic character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sympathetic character" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a character in literature, film, or other narratives that evokes sympathy or compassion from the audience. Example: "The protagonist in the story is a sympathetic character, struggling with personal demons that make readers root for their redemption."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bat Boy was also a sympathetic character.

The New York Times

John Hirst is not a sympathetic character.

The Guardian

Marius is not a sympathetic character.

The New York Times - Arts

Fincher almost makes John Doe a sympathetic character.

The New Yorker

Her narrator is not necessarily a sympathetic character.

The New York Times - Books

Throughout the opera, she is the one totally sympathetic character".

The New Yorker

Jeff, despite his "fateful night," is a sympathetic character.

The New Yorker

He is by no means a sympathetic character.

The New York Times - Books

Even the father becomes a deeply sympathetic character.

The Guardian - Books

_Gavin Highly is not an entirely sympathetic character.

The New Yorker

Marjorie is neither an original nor a sympathetic character.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When crafting a narrative, consider using "sympathetic character" to describe figures whose struggles and vulnerabilities resonate with readers, fostering a deeper connection and investment in their journey.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "sympathetic character" must be inherently likeable. A character can evoke sympathy through their circumstances or flaws, even if their actions are morally questionable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sympathetic character" functions as a descriptive term. It's used to characterize a figure in a narrative or real life who evokes feelings of understanding, compassion, or pity from the audience. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples from literature, film, and real-world scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Wiki

2%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sympathetic character" effectively describes a figure that evokes empathy, compassion, or understanding from an audience. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and its frequent usage across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. While a "sympathetic character" isn't necessarily likeable, their circumstances or flaws create a connection with the audience. When crafting narratives, use this phrase to precisely describe characters whose vulnerability resonates with readers. Consider using related phrases like "relatable character" or "empathetic character" to fine-tune the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relatable character

Focuses on the character's ability to connect with the audience's experiences.

empathetic character

Highlights the character's capacity to understand and share the feelings of others.

compassionate figure

Emphasizes the character's capacity for showing compassion.

understanding persona

Stresses the character's ability to grasp complex situations and emotions.

benevolent individual

Highlights the character's kindness and well-meaning nature.

kindhearted protagonist

Focuses on the character's good nature within the story.

amiable personality

Emphasizes the character's friendly and pleasant disposition.

generous spirit

Focuses on the character's willingness to give and share.

forgiving nature

Highlights the character's capacity for showing forgiveness.

warmhearted soul

Stresses the character's emotional warmth and kindness.

FAQs

How can I use "sympathetic character" in a sentence?

You can use "sympathetic character" to describe a character in a story or real life who evokes feelings of pity, compassion, or understanding. For example: "Despite his flaws, the protagonist was a deeply "sympathetic character"."

What are some alternatives to "sympathetic character"?

Alternatives to "sympathetic character" include "relatable character", "empathetic character", or "compassionate figure". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes a character a "sympathetic character"?

A character becomes a "sympathetic character" through traits or circumstances that make the audience feel compassion, understanding, or pity for them. This could be due to their struggles, vulnerabilities, or moral dilemmas.

Is it necessary for a "sympathetic character" to be likeable?

No, a "sympathetic character" doesn't have to be likeable. Sympathy can arise from understanding a character's motivations or circumstances, even if their actions are flawed or morally ambiguous.